Beer Styles Study Guide

Transcription

eer tle tud Guide
Today, there are hundreds of documented beer styles and a handful of organizations with their own unique classifications. As beer styles continue to
evolve, understanding the sensory side of craft beer will help you more deeply appreciate and share your knowledge and enthusiasm for the beverage
of beer.
Take a deeper dive into America’s craft beer styles and improve your ability to describe the tastes, textures and aromas of beer.
Here is your study guide that will help prepare you for what you might encounter when tasting craft beer.
How to Ue the tud Guide
The CraftBeer.com Beer Styles Study Guide is for those who want to dive even deeper and includes quantitative style statistics not found in the Beer
Styles section. Using an alphabetical list of triggers — from alcohol to yeast variety — this text will help describe possible characteristics of a specific
beer style.
The best part of learning about craft beer is getting to taste and experience what you’re studying. Use the CraftBeer.com Tasting Sheet to help you
analyze and describe what you taste and if it’s appropriate for a particular beer style.
The Beer Styles Study Guide may provide more information than many beer novices care to know. However, as your beer journey unfolds, your desire
for more descriptors and resources will grow.
Do All Craft rewer rew eer to tle?
Craft beer resides at the intersection of art and science. It is up to each individual brewer to decide whether they want to create beer within specific
style guidelines or forge a new path and break the mold of traditional styles.
Because so many craft brewers brew outside style guidelines, it is impossible to make a list that fully represents the spectrum of beers being created
today. CraftBeer.com Beer Styles include many common styles being made in the U.S. today, but is not exhaustive.
Common U.. eer tle
Craft brewers use a wide variety of ingredients to achieve the aroma, body, flavor and finish they desire in their beer. They often take classic, old-world
styles from great brewing countries like England, Germany and Belgium and add their own twists by modifying the amount or type of ingredients or the
brewing processes. Due to the popularity of craft beer in America, there are now multiple beer styles uniquely credited to the U.S.
Due to the constant experimentation and exploration by today’s U.S. brewers, new beer styles are constantly evolving. That makes it difficult, if not
impossible, to fully document all types of beer being made at any given time. Another factor is that new beer styles usually become established by
developing a track record of multiple breweries making the same type of beer over years and years. In other words, it takes time before any trendy new
type of beer is deemed a recognized beer style.
To create this study guide, we looked at the world beer styles (https://www.brewersassociation.org/educationalpublications/beerstyles/) recognized by
the Brewers Association (publishers of CraftBeer.com) and narrowed that list down to 79 styles in 15 style families. Descriptive terms are always listed
from least to most intense.
Overview of the tud Guide
Explanation of Quantitative Style Statistics
Original Gravity (OG): The specific gravity of wort (unfermented beer) before fermentation. A measure of the total amount of solids that are
dissolved in the wort, it compares the density of the wort to the density of water, which is conventionally given as 1.000 at 60 Fahrenheit.
Final Gravity (FG): The specific gravity of a beer as measured when fermentation is complete (when all desired fermentable sugars have been
converted to alcohol and carbon dioxide gas). When fermentation has occurred, this number is always less than Original Gravity.
Alcohol By Volume (ABV): A measurement of the alcohol content in terms of the percentage volume of alcohol per volume of beer. Caution: This
measurement is always higher than Alcohol by Weight (not included in this guide). To calculate the approximate volumetric alcohol content,
subtract FG from OG and divide by 0.0075.
Example: OG = 1.050, FG = 1.012
ABV = (1.050 – 1.012) / 0.0075
ABV = 0.038 / 0.0075
ABV = 5.067
ABV = 5% (approximately)
International Bitterness Units (IBUs): 1 bitterness unit = 1 milligram of isomerized (exposed to heat) hop alpha acids in one liter of beer. Can
range from 0 (lowest—no bitterness) to above 100 IBUs. Usually the general population cannot perceive bitterness above or below a specific
range of IBUs (said to be below 8 and above 80 IBUs by some sources).
Bitterness Ratio (BU:GU): A comparison of IBUs (Bitterness Units) to sugars (Gravity Units) in a beer. .5 is perceived as balanced, less than .5 is
perceived as sweeter and over .5 is perceived as more bitter. Formula: Divide IBU by the last two digits of Original Gravity (remove the 1.0) to give
relative bitterness. Note: Carbonation also balances beer’s bitterness, but is not factored in this equation. This is a concept from Ray Daniels,
creator of the Cicerone® Certification Program.
Example: pale ale with 37 IBUs and an OG of 1.052 is 37/52 = 0.71 BU:GU
Standard Reference Method (SRM): Provides a numerical range representing the color of a beer. The common range is 2-50. The higher the
SRM, the darker the beer. SRM represents the absorption of specific wavelengths of light. It provides an analytical method that brewers use to
measure and quantify the color of a beer. The SRM concept was originally published by the American Society of Brewing Chemists.
Examples: Very Light (1-1.5), Straw (2-3 SRM), Pale (4), Gold (5-6), Light Amber (7), Amber (8), Medium Amber (9), Copper/Garnet (10-12),
Light Brown (13-15), Brown/Reddish Brown/Chestnut Brown (16-17), Dark Brown (18-24), Very Dark (25-39), Black (40+)
Volumes of CO2 (v/v): Volumes of CO2 commonly vary from 1-3+ v/v (volumes of dissolved gas per volume of liquid) with 2.5-2.7 volumes being
the most common in the U.S. market. Beer’s carbonation comes from carbon dioxide gas, which is a naturally occurring byproduct created during
fermentation by yeast and a variety of microorganisms. The amount of carbonation is expressed in terms of “volumes” of CO2. A volume is the
space the CO2 gas would occupy at standard temperature and pressure, compared to the volume of beer in which it’s dissolved. So one keg of
beer at 2.5 volumes of CO2 contains enough gas to fill 2.5 kegs with CO2.
Apparent Attenuation (AA): A simple measure of the extent of fermentation wort has undergone in the process of becoming beer, Apparent
Attenuation reflects the amount of malt sugar that is converted to ethanol during fermentation. The result is expressed as a percentage and equals
65% to 80% for most beers. Or said more simply: Above 80% is very high attenuation with little residual sugar. Below 60% is low attenuation with
more residual sugar remaining. Formula: AA = [(OG-FG) / (OG-1)] x 100
Example: OG = 1.080, FG = 1.020
AA = [(1.080 – 1.020) / (1.080 – 1)] x 100
AA = (0.060 / 0.080) x 100
AA = 0.75 x 100
AA = 75%
Commercial Examples: List some U.S. brewery produced examples of this style.
The A-Z of eer tle
Use this alphabetical list of triggers as a guide to help you when describing possible characteristics of a specific beer style.
Alcohol
Ranges: not detectable, mild, noticeable, harsh
A synonym for ethyl alcohol or ethanol, the colorless primary alcohol component of beer.
Alcohol ranges for beer vary from less than 3.2% to greater than 14% ABV. Sensed in aroma, flavor and palate of beer
Fusel alcohol can also exist in beer
Brewing and Conditioning Process
Brewers use a wide variety of techniques to modify the brewing process. Some of the variables they play with might include variable
mashing, steeping, unique fermentation temperatures, multiple yeast additions, barrel aging and blending, dry hopping and bottle
conditioned.
Carbonation (CO2): Visual
Ranges: none, slow, medium, fast rising bubbles
Carbonation is a main ingredient in beer. It lends body or weight on the tongue and stimulates the trigeminal nerves, which sense
temperature, texture and pain in the face. Carbonation can be detected as an aroma (carbonic acid). It also affects appearance and is
what creates the collar of foam common to most beer styles.
Carbonation can be naturally occurring (produced by yeast during fermentation) or added to beer under pressure. Nitrogen can also be
added to beer, providing smaller bubbles and a softer mouthfeel compared to CO2.
Clarity: The degree to which solids in suspension are absent in beer; different from color and brightness.
Ranges: brilliant, clear, slight haze, hazy, opaque
Solids can include unfermented sugars, proteins, yeast sediments and more.
The degree to which solids are present in solution is referred to as turbidity.
Collar of Foam
Head Retention/Texture
Retention Ranges: none, poor (up to 15 seconds), moderate (15 to 60 seconds), good (more than 60 seconds)
Texture Ranges: thin, interrupted, foamy, fluffy, rocky, mousse-like
Color (SRM): See SRM under Quantitative above.
Country of Origin
The country from which a style originates
Food Pairing: Cheese, Entree, Dessert
Glass
Hops
Flavor and aroma ranges: citrus, tropical, fruity, floral, herbal, onion-garlic, sweaty, spicy, woody, green, pine, spruce, resinous
itterness ranges: restrained, moderate, aggressive, harsh
B
Hops deliver resins and essential oils that influence beer’s aroma, flavor, bitterness, head retention, astringency, and perceived
sweetness. They also increase beer’s stability and shelf life.
Brewers today use well over 100 different varieties of hops worldwide. Hops grown in the U.S. contribute an estimated 30 percent to the
global supply.
Malt
Flavor and aroma ranges: bread flour, grainy, biscuit, bready, toast, caramel, prune-like, roast, chocolate, coffee, smoky, acrid
Malt has been called the soul of beer. It is the main fermentable ingredient, providing the sugars that yeast use to create alcohol and
carbonation.
Malt is converted barley or other grains that have been steeped, germinated, heated, kilned (or roasted in a drum), cooled, dried and then
rested.
A wide variety of barley and other malts are used to make beer, including pale malt (pilsner and pale two-row), higher temperature kilned
malt (Munich and Vienna), roasted/specialty malt (chocolate and black) and unmalted barley. Wheat malt is commonly used as well.
Malt provides fermentable and non-fermentable sugars and proteins that influence beer’s aroma, alcohol, body, color, flavor and head
retention.
Other Ingredients
Adjuncts are ingredients that have typically not been malted, but are a source of fermentable sugars.
Common adjuncts include: candy sugar, honey, molasses, refined sugar, treacle, maple syrup
Unmalted starchy adjuncts: oats, rye, wheat, corn/maize, rice
Note: Many of these grains can be malted to create unique flavors compared to their unmalted counterparts.
Other: fruit, herbs, roasted (unmalted) barley or wheat, spices, wood
Oxidative/Aged Qualities
Can come from hops, malt or yeast. Only listed where appropriate for the specific style.
Aroma/Flavor: almond, blackcurrant, E-2-nonenal (papery/cardboard), honey, metallic, sherry, sweat socks, others
Color: Beer darkens over time due to oxygen ingress.
Palate
Palate refers to the non-taste sensations felt on the mouth and tongue when tasting a beer. The palate of a beer can be sensed as:
Astringency
Ranges: low, medium(-), medium, medium(+), high
Body
Ranges: drying, soft, mouth-coating, sticky
Palate Carbonation
Ranges: low, medium, high
Length/Finish
Ranges: short (less than 15 seconds), medium (up to 60 seconds), long (more than 60 seconds)
Temperature
Storage of draught beer should remain at 38° F to retain the level of carbonation created during fermentation.
The service temperature of beer has an impact on the sensory aspect of a beer.
In general, a beer will exhibit an increase in perceived aromas and flavors if served warmer than a beer that is served at a cooler
temperature.
A general rule of thumb calls for ales to be served at a warmer temperature (45-55° F) than their lager counterparts (40-45° F).
Water
Common taste descriptors: chalk, flint, sulfur and more
Beer is mostly water, which makes water quite an important ingredient. Some brewers make their beer without altering the chemistry of
their water sources. Many do modify the water to make it most suitable to deliver the beer characteristics they hope to highlight. It
provides minerals and ions that add various qualities to beer.
Common minerals: carbonate, calcium, magnesium, sulfate
Yeast, Microorganisms and Fermentation Byproducts
Yeast eats sugars from malted barley and other fermentables, producing carbonation, alcohol and aromatic compounds. The flavor of
yeast differs based on yeast strain, temperature, time exposed to the beer, oxygen and other variables.
Types of Yeast:
Ale: Saccharomyces Cerevisiae (ester driven). Commonly referred to as top fermenting yeast, it most often ferments at warmer
temperatures (60-70F).
Lager: Saccharomyces Pastorianus (often lends sulfuric compounds). Commonly referred to as bottom fermenting yeast, it most
often ferments at cooler temperatures (45-55F).
Weizen Yeast: Common to some German-style wheat beers and is considered an ale yeast.
Brettanomyces: wild yeast with flavors like barnyard, tropical fruit, and more.
Microorganisms: (bacteria) Acetobacter (produces acetic acid), Lactobacillus/Pediococcus (produce lactic acid), others
Byproducts of Fermentation
For a robust spreadsheet on many byproducts or agents in beer see Flavor Components in Beer  (PDF)
o sample 10 common byproducts order the following tasting kit: Aroxa Beer Flavor Standards: Beer Uno Kit
T
Common byproducts of yeast fermentation:
Esters:
Aromas (volatiles): apple, apricot, banana, blackcurrant, cherry, fig, grapefruit, kiwi, peach, pear, pineapple, plum, raisin,
raspberry, strawberry, others
Common esters include:
Isoamyl acetate (common from weizen ale yeast): banana, pear
Ethyl acetate: nail polish remover, solvent
Ethyl hexanoate: red apple, fennel
Phenols
Common phenols include:
4-vinyl guaiacol: clove, cinnamon, vanilla
Chlorophenols: antiseptic, mouthwash
Syringol: smoky, campfire
Tannins/Polyphenols: velvet, astringent, sandpaper
Other fermentation byproducts
Common byproducts include (when acceptable to style):
4-ethyl-phenol: barnyard, mice
4-ethyl-guaiacol: smoked meat, clove
3-methyl-2-butene-1-thiol: lightstruck
2,3-butanedione (Diacetyl)
Acetaldehyde
Dimethyl sulphide (DMS)
Hydrogen sulphide
What i Craft eer? What i a Craft rewer?
Today is the best time in U.S. history to be a beer lover. The average American lives within 10 miles of a brewery, and the U.S. has more beer styles
and brands to choose from than any other beer market in the world.
The definition of “craft beer” is difficult, as it means many different things to many different beer lovers. Thus, craft beer is not defined by CraftBeer.com.
However, our parent organization, the Brewers Association, does define what it means to be an American craft brewer: A U.S. craft brewer is a smaller
producer (making less than six million barrels of beer a year) and is independently owned. This definition allows the Brewers Association to provide
statistics on the growing craft brewery community, which accounts for 99 percent of America’s 4,600+ breweries.
Visit BrewersAssociation.org for the complete craft brewer definition and details on the craft beer industry market segments: brewpubs, microbreweries
and regional craft breweries.
Wh Craft eer?
Craft beer is enjoyed during everyday celebrations and is viewed by many as one of life’s special pleasures. Each glass displays the creativity and
passion of its maker and the complexity of its ingredients. Craft beer is treasured by millions who see it as not merely a fermented beverage, but
something to be shared, revered and enjoyed in moderation (see Savor the Flavor).
In the food arts world, craft beer is a versatile beverage that not only enhances food when expertly paired with a dish, but is also often brought into the
kitchen as a cooking ingredient. Because of this, you will see suggested food pairings for each style in this guide. If you would like to geek out even
further on beer and food pairing, check out CraftBeer.com’s Beer & Food Course (a free download).
Tale of Content
Dark Lager
Pale Ale
tout
American Amber Lager
German-Style Dunkel
German-Style Marzen/Oktoberfest
German-Style Schwarzbier
Vienna-Style Lager
American Amber Ale
American Pale Ale
English-Style Bitter
Blonde Ale
English-Style Pale Ale/ESB
American Imperial Stout
American Stout
English-Style Oatmeal Stout
English-Style Sweet Stout (Milk Stout)
Irish-Style Dry Stout
pecialt eer
India Pale Ale
elgian tle
American Black Ale
Barrel-Aged Beer
Chocolate Beer
Coffee Beer
Fruit and Field Beer
Gluten Free
Herb and Spice Beer
Honey Beer
Pumpkin Beer
Rye Beer
Session Beer
Smoke Beer
Specialty Beer
American India Pale Ale/IPA
English-Style India Pale Ale/IPA
Imperial India Pale Ale
Belgian-Style Blonde Ale
Belgian-Style Dubbel
Belgian-Style Golden Strong Ale
Belgian-Style Pale Ale
Belgian-Style Quadrupel
Belgian-Style Saison
Belgian-Style Tripel
Hrid eer
American Cream Ale
French-Style Biere de Garde
California Common
German-Style Brown/Altbier
German-Style Kolsch
Irish-Style Red
Wheat eer
American-Style Wheat Wine Ale
American Wheat
Belgian-Style Witbier
Berliner-Style Weisse
German-Style Dunkelweizen
German-Style Hefeweizen
Pilener and Pale Lager
American Lager
Bohemian-Style Pilsener
European-Style Export
German-Style Helles
German-Style Pilsener
rown Ale
American Brown Ale
English-Style Brown Ale
English-Style Mild
cottih-tle Ale
Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy
Scottish-Style Ale
ock
German-Style Bock
German-Style Doppelbock
German-Style Maibock
German-Style Weizenbock
Porter
American Imperial Porter
Baltic-Style Porter
English-Style Brown Porter
Robust Porter
Smoke Porter
trong Ale
American Barley Wine
American Imperial Red Ale
British-Style Barley Wine Ale
English-Style Old Ale
Wild/our eer
American Brett
American Sour
Belgian-Style Flanders
Belgian-Style Fruit Lambic
Belgian-Style Lambic/Gueuze
Contemporary Gose
AMRICAN AMR LAGR
tle Famil: Dark Lager
A widely available, sessionable craft beer style that showcases both malt and hops. Amber lagers are a medium-bodied lager with a toasty or caramellike malt character. Hop bitterness can range from very low to medium-high. Brewers may use decoction mash and dry-hopping to achieve advanced
flavors.
Quantitative tle tatitic
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
Apparent Attenuation
1.042 - 1.056
1.010 - 1.018
4.8% - 5.4%
18 - 30
0.43 - 0.54
6 - 14
2.5 approximately
68 - 76
U.. Commercial xample
Sam Adams Boston Lager Boston Beer Co.
Lager Brooklyn Brewery
Lager Yuengling Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol Mild to Noticeable
Brewing/Conditioning Process Can use decoction mash and dry-hopping to achieve
advanced flavors
Color Gold to Copper
Clarity Clear to Slight Haze
Country of Origin United States
Collar of Foam (Head Retention) Good
Collar of Foam (Texture) Foamy
Carbonation (Visual) Medium to Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese White Cheddar
Entrée Grilled Meats and Vegetables
Dessert Fruit Desserts
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor and aroma are very low to medium-high. Hop
bitterness is very low to medium-high
Hop Ingredients German Noble
Malt Aroma/Flavor Low to medium-low caramel-type or toasted malt aromas
are often present
Malt Ingredients Two-row, Munich, Vienna, Caramel
Palate Body Soft
Palate Carbonation Medium to High
Palate Length/Finish Short to Medium
Temperature 45-50°F
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager
Phenols Not common to style
Esters Not common to style
source: CraftBeer.com
GRMAN-TYL DUNKL
A German-style dunkel, sometimes referred to as a Munchner dunkel, should have chocolate-like, roast malt, bread-like or biscuit-like aromas that
come from the use of Munich dark malt.This beer does not offer an overly sweet impression, but rather a mild balance between malt sweetness and
hop character.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.048 - 1.056
1.014 - 1.018
4.8% - 5.3%
16 - 25
0.33 - 0.45
15 - 17
2 - 2.5
68 - 71
Munich Dunkel Carver Brewing Co.
Knight Ryder Munich Dunkel Equinox Brewing
Dunkel Chuckanut Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Brewing/Conditioning Process
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Collar of Foam (Head Retention)
Collar of Foam (Texture)
Carbonation (Visual)
Mild to Noticeable
A decoction mash is commonly used
Light Brown to Dark Brown
Clear to Slight Haze
Germany
Good
Mousse-like
Medium Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Washed-Rind Munster
Entrée Sausages, Roasted Vegetables
Dessert Candied Ginger Beer Cake
Glass Vase
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are not perceived. Hop bitterness is
low
Malt Aroma/Flavor Malt aroma is low to medium, with chocolate-like, roasted
malt, bread-like or biscuit-like notes
Malt Ingredients Munich, Carafa Special II
Palate Body Mouth-Coating
Palate Carbonation Medium
Palate Length/Finish Medium
Water Moderate carbonate water
YAT
Type Lager
GRMAN-TYL MARZN/OKTORFT
A beer rich in malt with a balance of clean, hop bitterness. Bread or biscuit-like malt aroma and flavor is common. Originating in Germany, this style
used to be seasonally available in the spring (“Marzen” meaning “March”), with the fest-style versions tapped in October.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.050 - 1.060
1.012 - 1.020
5.1% - 6.0%
18 - 25
0.36 - 0.42
4 - 15
2 - 2.5
67 - 76
Rhinofest Lost Rhino Brewing Co.
Shiner Oktoberfest Spoetzl Brewery
Festbier Victory Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
Pale to Reddish Brown
Brilliant
Germany
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Jalapeno Jack
Entrée Kielbasa
Dessert Coconut Flan
Glass Flute
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are very low to low. Hop bitterness is
medium low to medium
Malt Aroma/Flavor Toast
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Vienna, Munich
Palate Body Soft
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager
GRMAN-TYL CHWARZIR
Sometimes called black lagers, they may remind some of German-style dunkels, but schwarzbiers are drier, darker and more roast-oriented.These
very dark brown to black beers have a surprisingly pale-colored foam head (not excessively brown) with good cling quality. They have a mild roasted
malt character without the associated bitterness. Malt flavor and aroma is at low to medium levels of sweetness.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.052
1.010 - 1.016
3.8% - 4.9%
22 - 30
0.50 - 0.58
25 - 30
2 - 2.5
69 - 77
Shiner Bohemian Black Lager Spoetzl Brewery
Black Bavarian Sprecher Brewing Co.
Sam Adams Black Lager Boston Beer
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Not Detectable to Mild
Very Dark Brown to Black
Clear
Germany
Good
Foamy
Medium to Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Munster-Style Cheese
Entrée Mushroom Strudel
Dessert Fruit Tart
Glass Flute
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are very low to low, deriving from
noble-type hops. Hop bitterness is low to medium
Malt Aroma/Flavor Reminiscent of bitter chocolate or coffee. Malt sweetness is
low to medium, and incorporates mild roasted malt
character without the associated bitterness
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Munich, Crystal, Chocolate Malt, Black Roasted
Barley, Carafa Special II
Palate Body Soft
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager
VINNA-TYL LAGR
Ranges from copper to reddish brown in color. The beer is characterized by malty aroma and slight malt sweetness. The malt aroma and flavor should
have a notable degree of toasted and/or slightly roasted malt character. Hop bitterness is low to medium-low.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.046 - 1.056
1.012 - 1.018
4.8% - 5.4%
22 - 28
0.48 - 0.50
12 - 26
2 - 2.5
68 - 74
Eliot Ness Great Lakes Brewing Co.
Vienna Lager Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant
Vienna Lager Chuckanut Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
Copper to Reddish Brown
Brilliant to Clear
Germany
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Mild Cheeses
Dessert Almond Biscotti
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Palate Length/Finish
Temperature
Water
Flute
Hop aroma, flavor and bitterness are very low to low
German Noble
Aroma should have a notable degree of toasted and/or
slightly roasted malt character. Malt flavor is slightly sweet
Vienna
Soft
Medium
Short to Medium
45-50°F
Hard carbonate water
YAT
Type Lager
AMRICAN LACK AL
tle Famil: pecialt eer
Characterized by the perception of caramel malt and dark roasted malt flavor and aroma. Hop bitterness is perceived to be medium-high to high. Hop
flavor and aroma are medium-high. Fruity, citrus, piney, floral and herbal character from hops of all origins may contribute to the overall experience.
This beer is often called a black IPA or Cascadian dark ale.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.056 - 1.075
1.012 - 1.018
6.3% - 7.6%
50 - 70
0.89 - 0.93
35+
2 - 2.5
76 - 79
Wookey Jack Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
Blacktop IPA New Glarus Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
Very Dark to Black
Clear to Opaque
United States
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Blue Cheeses, Aged Gouda
Entrée Grilled Shrimp and Grits
Dessert Chocolate Truffles
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma is medium-high to high, with hops of all origins
contributing fruity, floral, herbal or other notes
Hop Ingredients Varies
Malt Aroma/Flavor Medium caramel malt and dark roasted malt aromas are
evident
Malt Ingredients Varies
Palate Body Soft
Palate Length/Finish Medium to Long
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Can be present
ARRL-AGD R
A wood- or barrel-aged beer is any lager, ale or hybrid beer, either a traditional style or a unique experimental beer, that has been aged for a period of
time in a wooden barrel or in contact with wood. This beer is aged with the intention of imparting the unique character of the wood and/or the flavor of
what has previously been in the barrel. Today’s craft brewers are using wood (mostly oak) to influence flavor and aromatics. Beer may be aged in
wooden barrels (new or previously used to age wine or spirits), or chips, spirals and cubes may be added to the conditioning tanks that normally house
beer. A variety of types of wood are used including oak, apple, alder, hickory and more. The interior of most barrels is charred or toasted to further
enhance the flavor of the wood.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Hellshire III Oakshire Brewing Co.
Barrel Aged Sump Coffee Stout Perennial Beer Co.
DBA Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Varies
Aging in wood barrels necessary
Varies
Varies
Undetermined
Varies
Varies
Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Varies
Entrée Varies
Dessert Varies
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Other ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Tulip
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Wood Aging
Varies
Low to High
Varies
50-55°F
Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale. May have Brettanomyces character
Phenols Can be present
CHOCOLAT R
This is an ale or lager that benefits from the addition of dark chocolate or cocoa. More common in porters, stouts and brown ales, where the grain bill
better complements the confectionery ingredient, it can be added to other styles as well. Overt bitterness is not acceptable in this style. Little hop
character is desired and the chocolate flavor does not need to be overwhelming. The style can vary greatly in approach and flavor profile depending
on the brewer.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.030 - 1.110
1.006 - 1.030
2.5% - 12.0%
15 - 40
0.36 - 0.50
15 - 50
Varies
73 - 80
Chocolate Oak Aged Imperial Yeti Stout
Great Divide Brewing Co.
The Fix Elysian Brewing
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Varies
Light Brown to Black
Brilliant to Opaque
Undetermined
Varies
Varies
Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Aged Goat Cheeses
Entrée Venison Mole
Dessert Raspberry Torte
Glass Snifter
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor and aroma are lower than might be expected for
the style. Under-hopping allows chocolate to contribute to
the flavor profile while not becoming excessively bitter. Hop
bitterness is very low to medium-low.
Malt Aroma/Flavor Medium-low to medium-high malt sweetness helps accent
cocoa flavors and aromas.
Other ingredients Chocolate
Palate Body Varies
Palate Carbonation Low to High
Palate Length/Finish Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale
Phenols Can be present.
Esters Can be present.
COFF R
As the name suggests, this can be either a lager or ale with coffee added to boost flavor. While stouts and porters are popular base styles for coffee
beer, many craft breweries are experimenting with other styles, like cream ales and India pale ales. Brewers may steep the beans in either water or
beer to impart java flavor without adding acidity. Barrel-aged or wood-influenced versions may show signs of oxidation, including sherry notes and
other advanced flavors.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.030 - 1.110
1.006 - 1.030
2.5% - 12.0%
15 - 45
0.50 - 0.41
4 - 50
Varies
73 - 80
Panama Joe's Coffee Stout II Vicino Brewing Co.
Barrel Aged Sump Coffee Stout Perennial Artisan Ales
tle A-Z
Alcohol Varies
Brewing/Conditioning Process Coffee is used in any of its forms to create a distinct
(ranging from subtle to intense) character.
Color Pale to Black
Clarity Brilliant to Opaque
Country of Origin Undetermined
Collar of Foam (Head Retention) Varies
Collar of Foam (Texture) Varies
Carbonation (Visual) Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Aged Semi-Hard Cheeses
Entrée Pork Tenderloin
Dessert Vanilla Ice Cream
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor is reflective of aroma and can be low to high
depending on the intent of the underlying style. Hop
bitterness is very low to medium-high.
Malt Aroma/Flavor Medium-low to medium malt sweetness helps accent coffee
flavors and aromas.
Other ingredients Coffee
Palate Body Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale
FRUIT AND FILD R
Fruit beers are made with fruit, or fruit extracts are added during any portion of the brewing process, providing obvious yet harmonious fruit qualities.
This idea is expanded to “field beers” that utilize vegetables and herbs.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.030 - 1.110
1.006 - 1.030
2.5% - 13.3%
5 - 45
0.17 - 0.64
5 - 50
Varies
73 - 80
Ruby Raspberry Wheat Mad Anthony Brewing Co.
Elektrik Cukumbah Trinity Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Varies
Varies
Pale to Very Dark
Varies
Undetermined
Varies
Varies
Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Creamy Cheeses
Entrée Salads
Dessert Vanilla Ice Cream
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Other ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Tulip
Hop bitterness is very low to medium-high
Varies
Malt sweetness is very low to medium-high
Varies
Fruit, Vegetables
Varies
Low to High
Varies
Varies
Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale
GLUTN FR
Barley, wheat, oats, rye and spelt commonly contain gluten, so look for other fermentables to be featured in these beers. A beer (lager, ale or other)
that is made from fermentable sugars, grains and converted carbohydrates. Ingredients do not contain gluten.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Gluten Free Deschutes Brewing Co.
Nikki's Gluten Free Honey Pale Ale Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Varies
Typically brewed without malt
Varies
Varies
Undetermined
Varies
Varies
Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Varies
Entrée Varies
Dessert Varies
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Other ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Flute
Varies
Varies
Malted barley, wheat and other gluten-rich grains should not
be perceived
N/A
Fermentable sugars, grains and converted carbohydrates
that do not contain gluten
Varies
Low to High
Varies
Varies
Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Microorganisms
Lager or Ale
Can be present.
Can be present
Lactobacillus and Pediococcus
HR AND PIC R
This is a lager or ale that contains flavors derived from flowers, roots, seeds or certain fruits or vegetables. Typically the hop character is low, allowing
the added ingredient to shine through. The appearance, mouthfeel and aromas vary depending on the herb or spice used. This beer style
encompasses innovative examples as well as traditional holiday and winter ales.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.030 - 1.110
1.006 - 1.030
2.5% - 12.0%
5 - 40
0.17 - 0.36
5 - 50
Varies
73 - 80
Bitterama Namaste Brewery
Midas Touch Dogfish Head Brewing Co.
Good Juju Left Hand Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Varies
Any range of color depending on the underlying style
Varies
Undetermined
Varies
Varies
Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Varies
Entrée Varies
Dessert Varies
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma is not essential, but may be evident at low levels
and should not dominate over the herb or spice character
Malt Aroma/Flavor Varies
Other ingredients Herbs, Spices
Palate Body Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale
HONY R
Both lagers and ales can be brewed with honey. Some brewers will choose to experiment with ingredients, while others will add honey to traditional
styles. Overall the character of honey should be evident but not totally overwhelming. A wide variety of honey beers are available. U.S. brewers may
add honey to the boil kettle (as a sugar source) or post-boil (to preserve more volatile aromatics).
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.030 - 1.110
1.006 - 1.030
2.5% - 12.0%
1 - 100
0.03 - 0.91
Varies
Varies
73 - 80
Buzzed Bee Honey Ale High Sierra Brewing Co.
Westbound Braggot Twisted Pine Brewing Co.
Midas Touch Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Varies
Varies
Varies
Undetermined
Varies
Varies
Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Ricotta
Entrée Bruschetta
Dessert Lemon Basil Gelato
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop bitterness is very low to very high, and may be used for
highlighting desired characteristics.
Other ingredients Honey
Palate Body Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale
PUMPKIN R
One of the most popular seasonal beers, this is a lager or ale that is brewed with fresh or processed pumpkin or winter squash. Since the fruit does
not have much of a taste by itself, many craft brewers have taken to adding spices typically found in pumpkin pie, like cinnamon and clove. However,
these flavors should not overpower the final product. Pumpkin can be found in everything from stouts to pale ales and pilseners.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.030 - 1.110
1.006 - 1.030
2.3% - 12.0%
5 - 70
0.17 - 0.64
5 - 50
Varies
73 - 80
The Great Pumpkin Elysian Brewing Co.
Pumking Southern Tier Brewing Co.
Punkin Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol Varies
Brewing/Conditioning Process Beer brewed with pumpkins (Cucurbito pepo) or winter
squash as an adjunct in either the mash, kettle or primary or
secondary fermentation, providing obvious (ranging from
subtle to intense) yet harmonious qualities
Color Any range of color depending on the underlying style
Clarity Varies
Country of Origin Undetermined
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Camembert
Entrée Roasted Turkey
Dessert Coffee Ice Cream
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Other ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Tulip
Hop bitterness is low to medium-low
Varies
Malt sweetness is low to medium-high
Varies
Pumpkin, Squash
Varies
Low to High
Varies
50-55°F
Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale
RY R
In darker versions, malt flavor can optionally include low roasted malt characters (evident as cocoa/chocolate or caramel) and/or aromatic toffee-like,
caramel, or biscuit-like characters. Low-level roasted malt astringency is acceptable when balanced with low to medium malt sweetness. Hop flavor is
low to medium-high. Hop bitterness is low to medium. These beers can be made using either ale or lager yeast. The addition of rye to a beer can add
a spicy or pumpernickel character to the flavor and finish. Color can also be enhanced and may become more red from the use of rye. The ingredient
has come into vogue in recent years in everything from stouts to lagers, but is especially popular with craft brewers in India pale ales. To be
considered an example of the style, the grain bill should include sufficient rye such that rye character is evident in the beer.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
LowRYEder SweetWater Brewing Co.
Hoss Great Divide Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol Varies
Color Inclusion of rye can create a wide range of color. Lighter
versions: Straw to Copper. Darker versions: Dark Amber to
Dark Brown
Clarity Varies
Country of Origin Germany
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Wensleydale
Entrée Jerk Chicken
Dessert Savory Bread Pudding
Glass Vase
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor and aroma are low to medium-high. Hop
bitterness is low to medium
Malt Aroma/Flavor In darker versions, malt aromas can optionally include low
roasted malt characters evident as cocoa/chocolate or
caramel, and/or aromatic toffee-like, caramel, or biscuit-like
characters
Other ingredients Grist should include sufficient rye such that rye character is
evident in the beer
Palate Body Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Fermentation Byproducts
Lager or Ale
Not common to style
Low level fruity-ester flavors are typical
In versions served with yeast, appearance may range from
hazy to very cloudy
ION R
This beer style is not defined by flavors or aromas, which can place it in almost any style category. Instead, what makes a session beer is primarily
refreshment and drinkability.Any style of beer can be made lower in strength than described in the classic style guidelines. The goal should be to reach
a balance between the style’s character and the lower alcohol content. Drinkability is a factor in the overall balance of these beers. Beer should not
exceed 5 percent ABV.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.034 - 1.040
1.004 - 1.010
4.0% - 5.0%
10 - 35
0.29 - 0.87
2+
Varies
75 - 88
Provo Girl Utah Brewers Co-op
Twerp Pizza Port Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Varies
Varies
Undetermined
Varies
Varies
Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Varies
Entrée Varies
Dessert Varies
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Other ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Low to High
Varies
Varies
Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale
MOK R
When malt is kilned over an open flame, the smoke flavor becomes infused into the beer, leaving a taste that can vary from dense campfire, to slight
wisps of smoke. This style is open to interpretation by individual brewers. Any style of beer can be smoked; the goal is to reach a balance between the
style’s character and the smoky properties. Originating in Germany as rauchbier, this style is open to interpretation by U.S. craft brewers. Classic base
styles include German-style Marzen/Oktoberfest, German-style bock, German-style dunkel, Vienna-style lager and more. Smoke flavors dissipate over
time.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Smoke Jumper Smoked Imperial Porter
Left Hand Brewing Co.
Smoked Porter Stone Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Varies
Varies
Varies
Germany
Varies
Varies
Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Parmesan
Entrée Grilled Vegetables
Dessert Gingerbread Cookies
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Other ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Vase
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Common woods used by U.S. craft brewers to smoke a
variety of malts: Apple, Alder, Beech, Cherry, Hickory,
Mesquite, Oak
Varies
Low to High
Varies
45-55°F
Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale
PCIALTY R
Special ingredients used in this style should be distinctive and evident in either the aroma, flavor or overall balance of the beer. This style category is a
catch-all. Any specialty beer that does not fit other specialty beer styles would be appropriately considered here. Examples can include sahti,
roggenbier, steinbier, white IPA, session IPA and more.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.030 - 1.140
1.006 - 1.030
2.5% - 25.0+%
1 - 100
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Chainbreaker White IPA Deschutes Brewery
Sam Adams Norse Legend Sahti Boston Beer Co.
All Day IPA Founders Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Varies
Varies
Varies
Undetermined
Varies
Varies
Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Varies
Entrée Varies
Dessert Varies
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Other ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Tulip
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Special or unusual ingredients or a combination of
ingredients that bump a beer out of the other styles. For
example, a "White IPA" is a combination of a Belgian-Style
Wit and American IPA. Examples of specialty or unusual
ingredients include maple syrup, potatoes, nuts, etc. Some
beers use ingredients in unusual ways, such as a chiliflavored beer that emphasize heat rather than chili flavor, or
a juniper berry beer in which the juniper is expressed more
as herbal or spice qualities than as a berry or fruity
character
Varies
Low to High
Varies
45-55°F
Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale
AMRICAN CRAM AL
tle Famil: Hrid eer
This is a mild, pale, light-bodied ale, made using a warm fermentation (top or bottom fermenting yeast) and cold lagering. Despite being called an ale,
when being judged in competitions it is acceptable for brewers to use lager yeast.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.052
1.004 - 1.010
4.3% - 5.7%
10 - 22
0.23 - 0.42
2 - 5
2.5 approximately
81 - 91
Summer Solstice Anderson Valley Brewing Co.
Spotted Cow New Glarus Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Sometimes krausened for carbonation
Straw to Gold
Brilliant
United States
Poor to Moderate
Thin to Interrupted
Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Monterey Jack
Entrée Salads, Mild Shellfish
Dessert Lemon Custard Tart
Glass Flute
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma is usually absent, and hop flavor is very low to
low. Hop bitterness is very low to low
Hop Ingredients Liberty
Malt Aroma/Flavor Grainy
Malt Ingredients Pilsner
Other ingredients Simple Sugar, Maize
Palate Body Soft
Palate Carbonation High
Palate Length/Finish Short
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Lager or Ale
Not common to style
Not common to style.
Fermentation-derived sulfur character and/or DMS flavor
should be extremely low or absent from this style of beer.
Diacetyl flavor should not be perceived
FRNCH-TYL IR D GARD
The name translates as “beer for keeping.” This style is popping up more and more from U.S. producers. Blond, amber and brown versions exist. Bier
de garde examples are light amber to chestnut brown or red in color. This style is characterized by a toasted malt aroma and slight malt sweetness.
Flavor of alcohol is evident. Often bottle-conditioned, with some yeast character.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.060 - 1.080
1.012 - 1.024
4.4% - 8.0%
20 - 30
0.33 - 0.38
7 - 16
2.5 - 3
70 - 80
Domaine DuPage Two Brothers Brewing Co.
Biere De Garde Schlafly Beer, The Saint Louis Brewery
Avant Garde The Lost Abbey
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
Light Amber to Chestnut Brown or Red
France
Good
Foamy to Rocky
Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Soft Ripened Cheeses
Entrée Roasted Lamb with Mint
Dessert Pecan Pie
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are low to medium, from noble-type
hops. Hop bitterness is low to medium
Hop Ingredients Fuggle
Malt Aroma/Flavor Toast, Caramel, Toffee
Malt Ingredients CaraVienna, Pilsner, Munich, Black Patent
Other ingredients Sugar (occasionally)
Palate Body Soft to Mouth-Coating
Water Soft Water
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale, Brettanomyces possible
Not common to style
Fruity-ester flavors can be low to medium in intensity
Diacetyl flavor should not be perceived. May have
Brettanomyces yeast-derived aromas that are slightly
acidic, fruity, horsey, goaty and/or leather-like. Earthy,
cellar-like, corky and/or musty aromas are acceptable
CALIFORNIA COMMON
This beer style is brewed with lager yeast but fermented at ale fermentation temperatures. There is a noticeable degree of toasted malt and/or
caramel-like malt character in flavor and often in aroma. Often referred to as “steam beer” and made famous by San Francisco’s Anchor Brewing
Company. Seek out woody and mint flavor from the Northern Brewer hops.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.045 - 1.056
1.010 - 1.018
4.6% - 5.7%
35 - 45
0.78 - 0.80
8 - 15
2.5 - 3
68 - 78
Anchor Steam Anchor Brewing Co.
2x Steam Southern Tier Brewing Co.
Old Scratch Amber Lager Flying Dog Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol Not Detectable to Mild
Brewing/Conditioning Process Cool ale fermentation temperatures used to ferment this
lager beer
Color Light Amber to Medium Amber
Clarity Clear
Collar of Foam (Head Retention) Moderate
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Feta
Entrée Pork Loin
Dessert Bread Pudding
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor is low to medium-low and may present as
Woody, Rustic, or Minty. Hop bitterness is medium to
medium-high
Hop Ingredients Northern Brewer
Malt Aroma/Flavor Noticeable caramel-type malt flavor should be present
Malt Ingredients Pale, Munich, Crystal, Victory, Pale Chocolate
Palate Body Drying
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager
Esters Fruity-ester aromas, if present, should be low to mediumlow
GRMAN-TYL ROWN/ALTIR
Originally from the Düsseldorf area of Germany, these ales strike a balance between hop and malt flavors and aromas, but can have low fruity esters
and some peppery and floral hop aromas. Before Germany had lager beer, it had ales. Alt, meaning “old,” pays homage to one rebel region in
Germany which did not lean into lagering. U.S. producers celebrate the ale revolution beautifully with this top-fermented German beer style.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.052
1.008 - 1.014
4.6% - 5.6%
25 - 52
0.57 - 1.00
11 - 19
1.5 - 2.5
73 - 82
Tree Hugger Terrapin Beer Co.
Little Red Cap Grimm Brothers Brewhouse
Alt Southampton Public House
tle A-Z
Brewing/Conditioning Process A decoction mash is sometimes used. Cooler ale
fermentation and lagering is common
Color Copper to Dark Brown
Clarity Brilliant
Collar of Foam (Texture) Mousse-like
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Emmental
Entrée Grilled Salmon
Dessert Apple Pie
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor is low to medium. Hop bitterness is medium to
very high (although the 25 to 35 IBU range is more normal
for the majority of Altbiers from Düsseldorf)
Hop Ingredients Spalt, Magnum, Tettnang
Malt Aroma/Flavor Sweet malt character that may have a rich, biscuity, and/or
light caramel flavor
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Munich, CaraMunich, Carafa Special II, Aromatic
Other ingredients Wheat (occasionally)
Palate Body Soft
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity-ester flavors, if present, can be low
GRMAN-TYL KOLCH
Light in color and malt character, this style’s fermentation process yields a light vinous character which is accompanied by a slightly dry, crisp finish.
Ale yeast is used for fermentation, though lager yeast is sometimes used in the bottle or final cold-conditioning process.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.042 - 1.048
1.006 - 1.010
4.8% - 5.3%
18 - 28
0.43 - 0.58
3 - 6
2.5 approximately
79 - 86
Fancy Lawnmower St. Arnold Brewing Co.
Capital City Kolsch Blind Tiger Brewery & Restaurant
Summer Ale Alaskan Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol Not Detectable
Brewing/Conditioning Process Commonly conditioned at colder temperatures (known as
'lagering')
Color Straw to Gold
Clarity Brilliant
Collar of Foam (Head Retention) Poor
Collar of Foam (Texture) Thin
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Nutty Cheeses
Entrée Bratwurst
Dessert Light Apricot Cake
Glass Flute
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor is low and, if evident, should express noble hop
character. Hop bitterness is medium
Malt Aroma/Flavor Malt character is a very low to low with a soft sweetness
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Vienna
Other ingredients Wheat (occasionally)
Palate Body Soft
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Light pear, apple or Riesling wine-like fruitiness may be
apparent
Fermentation Byproducts Low-level sulfur notes are acceptable
IRIH-TYL RD
This is a balanced beer that uses a moderate amount of kilned malts and roasted barley to give the color for which it’s named. With a medium hop
characteristic on the palate, this typically amber-colored beer is brewed as a lager or ale and can have a medium candy-like caramel malt sweetness.
This style may contain adjuncts such as corn, rice and sugar, which help dry out the finish and lessen the body. It also often contains roasted barley,
lending low roasted notes, darker color and possibly creating a tan collar of foam. With notes of caramel, toffee and sometimes low-level diacetyl
(butter), think of this beer style as a cousin to lightly-toasted and buttered bread.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.040 - 1.048
1.010 - 1.014
4.1% - 4.6%
20 - 28
0.50 - 0.58
11 - 18
2 - 2.5
71 - 75
Irish Red Glenwood Canyon Brewpub
Conway's Irish Ale Great Lakes Brewing Co.
Brian Boru Old Irish Ale Three Floyds Brewing
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Copper-Red to Reddish Brown
Clear to Hazy
Ireland
Poor to Good
Thin to Interrupted
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Cheddar
Entrée Roasted Vegetables
Dessert Poached Pears
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma is not perceived or low. Hop flavor and
bitterness are medium
Hop Ingredients Kent Goldings
Malt Aroma/Flavor Low to medium candy-like caramel malt sweetness is
present. May have a subtle degree of roasted barley or
roasted malt character and complexity
Malt Ingredients Pale, Crystal, Roasted Barley
Other ingredients May contain corn, rice or sugar adjuncts
Palate Body Soft to Moderate
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Lager or Ale
Not common to style
Low levels of fruity-ester flavor are acceptable
Diacetyl should be absent or at very low levels
AMRICAN-TYL WHAT WIN AL
tle Famil: Wheat eer
Part of the “strong ale” category, this ale is not derived from grapes as its name might suggest. Made with at least 50 percent wheat malt, this fullbodied beer features bready and candy flavors, and finishes with a great deal of malty sweetness. These beers may be oak-aged and sometimes have
small amounts of darker malts added.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.088 - 1.120
1.024 - 1.032
8.5% - 12.2%
45 - 85
0.51 - 0.71
5 - 15
2 - 2.5
73 - 73
Wheat Wine Smuttynose Brewing Co.
Winter Wheat Wine Rubicon Brewing Co.
Wheat Wine The Portsmouth Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Noticeable to Harsh
Gold to Light Brown
Slight Haze
United States
Poor
Thin to Interrupted
Slow to Medium Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Asiago
Entrée Smoked Trout
Dessert Peach Sorbet
Glass Snifter
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are low to medium. Hop bitterness is
medium to medium-high
Malt Aroma/Flavor Bready, wheat, honey-like and/or caramel malt aromas are
often present
Malt Ingredients At least 50 percent Malted Wheat
Palate Carbonation Low to Medium
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity-ester aroma is often high and counterbalanced with
complex alcohol character
AMRICAN WHAT
Color is pale to light amber. This beer can be made using either ale or lager yeast. Generally brewed with at least 30 percent malted wheat. These
beers are typically served with the yeast in the bottle, and pour cloudy. Traditionally more hoppy than a German hefeweizen, American wheat beer
differs in that it should not offer flavors of banana or clove. It is a refreshing summer style. Darker versions of this style also exist but are not as
common.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.036 - 1.056
1.004 - 1.018
3.5% - 5.6%
10 - 35
0.28 - 0.62
2 - 10
2.5 approximately
68 - 89
Wheat Beer Boulevard Brewing Co.
Oberon Bell's Brewery Inc.
Unfiltered Wheat Beer Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Brewed with wheat malt
Straw to Light Amber
Brilliant to Slight Haze
United States
Good
Mousse-like
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Chèvre
Entrée Salads, Seafood
Dessert Fruit Desserts
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Flute
Hop aroma, flavor and bitterness are low to medium
Willamette, Centennial
Grainy Wheat
Malted Wheat, American Two-Row
Varies
Medium to High
Varies
40-45°F
Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Lager or Ale
Can be present
Can be present
Very low levels of diacetyl may be acceptable
LGIAN-TYL WITIR
Belgian-style wits are brewed using unmalted wheat, sometimes oats and malted barley. Witbiers are spiced with coriander and orange peel. A style
that dates back hundreds of years, it fell into relative obscurity until it was revived by Belgian brewer Pierre Celis in the 1960s. This style is currently
enjoying a renaissance, especially in the American market. “Wit” means “white.”
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.050
1.006 - 1.010
4.8% - 5.6%
10 - 17
0.23 - 0.34
2 - 4
2 - 2.5
80 - 86
Optimal Wit Port City Brewing Co.
ZON Boulevard Brewing Co.
White Allagash Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Often bottle-conditioned
Straw to Pale
Hazy
Belgium
Good
Mousse-like
Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Mascarpone
Entrée Moules and Frites
Dessert Panna Cotta
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor and aroma are not perceived to low. Hop
bitterness is low, achieved traditionally by the use of nobletype hops
Malt Aroma/Flavor Malt aroma and flavor are very low to low
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Flaked Wheat, Unmalted Wheat, and occasionally
oats and malted barley
Other ingredients Orange Peel, Coriander Seed
Palate Body Drying
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale
Spicy, Pepper
Orange, Citrus
Unfiltered starch and yeast haze should be part of the
appearance. Wits are traditionally bottle-conditioned and
served cloudy
RLINR-TYL WI
Low in alcohol and refreshingly tart, and often served with a flavored syrup like Woodruff or raspberry, this German-style wheat ale presents a
harmony between yeast and lactic acid. These beers are very pale in color, and may be cloudy as they are often unfiltered. Hops are not a feature of
this style, but these beers often do showcase esters. Traditional versions often showcase Brettanomyces yeast. Growing in popularity in the U.S.,
where many brewers are now adding traditional and exotic fruits to the recipe, resulting in flavorful finishes with striking, colorful hues. These beers are
incredible when pairing. Bitterness, alcohol and residual sugar are very low, allowing the beer’s acidity, white bread and graham cracker malt flavors to
shine. Carbonation is very high, adding to the refreshment factor this style delivers. Many examples of this style contain no hops and thus no
bitterness at all.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.028 - 1.032
1.004 - 1.006
2.8% - 3.4%
3 - 6
0.11 - 0.19
2 - 4
3.5 - 4
81 - 86
Berliner Weisse Nodding Head Brewery & Restaurant
Berliner Weisse Wollnitzer Southampton Public House
Hottenroth Berliner Weisse The Bruery
tle A-Z
Brewing/Conditioning Process Hops often not boiled and instead added to a decoction
mash. Acidity may be introduced from a sour mash, lactic
acid additions or acidulated malt
Color Straw to Pale
Clarity Clear to Hazy
Collar of Foam (Head Retention) Poor
Collar of Foam (Texture) Foamy to Rocky
Carbonation (Visual) Slow to Medium Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Havarti
Entrée Aged Ham on Pretzel Bread
Dessert Cheesecake with Raspberries
Glass Goblet
not perceived to very low
Malt Aroma/Flavor Not Perceived
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Malted Wheat
Palate Body Drying
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Microorganisms
Lager or Ale
Not common to style
Fruity-ester flavors will be evident
Lactobacillus
GRMAN-TYL DUNKLWIZN
Could be considered a cross between a German-style dunkel and a hefeweizen. Distinguished by its sweet maltiness and chocolate-like character, it
can also have banana and clove (and occasionally vanilla or bubblegum) esters from weizen ale yeast.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.048 - 1.056
1.008 - 1.016
4.8% - 5.4%
10 - 15
0.21 - 0.27
10 - 25
2.5 - 3
71 - 83
Samuel Adams Dunkelweizen Boston Beer Co.
Shiner Dunkelweizen Spoetzl Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Copper-Brown to Very Dark
Slight Haze to Hazy
Germany
Good
Mousse-like
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Gouda
Entrée Roasted Chicken
Dessert Banana Cream Pie
Glass Vase
low
Malt Aroma/Flavor Bready or grainy, with a distinct sweet maltiness and a
chocolate-like character from roasted malt
Malt Ingredients At least 50 percent Malted Wheat, plus Munich, Special "B",
Crystal, Carafa Special II
Palate Body Moderate to Mouth-Coating
Water Varies
YAT
Type Weizen Ale
Phenols The phenolic flavors of Dunkel Weissbier should be evident
but subdued
Esters The ester flavors of Dunkel Weissbier should be evident but
subdued
GRMAN-TYL HFWIZN
German-style hefeweizens are straw to amber in color and made with at least 50 percent malted wheat. The aroma and flavor of a weissbier comes
largely from the yeast and is decidedly fruity (banana) and phenolic (clove). “Weizen” means “wheat” and “hefe” means “yeast.” There are multiple
variations to this style. Filtered versions are known as “kristal weizen” and darker versions are referred to as “dunkels,” with a stronger, bock-like
version called “weizenbock.” This is commonly a very highly carbonated style with a long-lasting collar of foam.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.047 - 1.056
1.008 - 1.016
4.9% - 5.6%
10 - 15
0.21 - 0.27
3 - 9
2.5 - 3
71 - 83
DreamWeaver Wheat Troegs Brewing Co.
Big Horn Hefeweizen CB and Potts Restaurant & Brewery
Ebel's Weiss Two Brothers Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
A decoction mash is sometimes used
Straw to Amber
Hazy
Germany
Good
Mousse-like
Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Chèvre
Entrée Seafood
Dessert Key Lime Pie
Glass Vase
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor is not perceived to very low. Hop bitterness is
very low
Malt Aroma/Flavor Malt sweetness is very low to medium-low
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Malted Wheat
Water Varies
YAT
Type Weizen Ale
Phenols Clove
Esters Banana
AMRICAN LAGR
tle Famil: Pilener and Pale Lager
American lager has little in the way of hop and malt character. A straw to gold, very clean and crisp, highly carbonated lager.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.040 - 1.048
1.006 - 1.014
4.1%-5.1%
5 - 15
0.13 - 0.31
2 - 6
2.2 - 2.7
70.83 - 85.00
Gold Beach Lager Arch Rock Lager
Session Premium Lager Full Sail Brewing Co.
Luchesa Lager Oasis Texas Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
Straw to Gold
Brilliant to Clear
United States
Poor
Thin
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Smear Ripened Cheeses
Entrée Pho
Dessert Kettle Corn Balls
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Other ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Flute
Low
Variety of bittering hops may be used
Grainy
2-Row and 6-Row Barley
Corn, Rice and other adjuncts are often used
Drying
Medium to High
Medium
40-45°F
YAT
Type Lager
Esters Low fruity-ester flavors are acceptable
OHMIAN-TYL PILNR
Bohemian-style pilseners have a slightly sweet and evident malt character and a toasted, biscuit-like, bready malt character. Hop bitterness is
perceived as medium with a low to medium-low level of noble-type hop aroma and flavor. This style originated in 1842, with “pilsener” originally
indicating an appellation in the Czech Republic. Classic examples of this style used to be conditioned in wooden tanks and had a less sharp hop
bitterness despite the similar IBU ranges to German-style pilsener. Low-level diacetyl is acceptable. Bohemian-style pilseners are darker in color and
bigger in final gravity than their German counterparts.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.056
1.014 - 1.020
4.1% - 5.1%
30 - 45
0.68 - 0.80
3 - 7
2 - 2.5
64 - 68
Bohemian Pilsener Ninkasi Brewing Co.
Pilsener McCoy's Public House
Bohemian Pilsener Dock Street Brewing
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Decoction mash provides a rich malt character
Clear to Brilliant
Czech Republic
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Mild White Cheddar
Entrée Shellfish, Chicken, Salads
Dessert Shortbread Cookies
Glass Flute
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are low to medium-low, deriving from
noble-type hops. Hop bitterness is medium
Hop Ingredients Czech Saaz
Malt Aroma/Flavor Toasted, biscuit-like, and/or bready malt flavors along with
low levels of fermented-malt-derived sulfur compounds may
be evident
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, CaraPils
Palate Body Soft
Water Low mineral content
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Lager
Not common to style
Not common to style
Low levels of fermentation-derived sulfur compounds may
be evident. Very low levels of diacetyl and DMS flavors may
be perceived
UROPAN-TYL XPORT
Sometimes referred to as a “Dortmunder export,” this beer has the malt-forward flavor and sweetness of a German-style helles, but the bitter base of a
German-style pilsener.This lager is all about balance, with medium hop character and firm but low malt sweetness. Look for toasted malt flavors and
spicy floral hop aromas.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.048 - 1.056
1.010 - 1.014
5.1% - 6.1%
23 - 29
0.48 - 0.52
3 - 6
2 - 2.5
75 - 79
Dortmunder Gold Great Lakes Brewing Co.
Lager Bell's Brewery Inc.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Straw to Deep Golden
Clear
Germany
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Chèvre
Entrée Grilled Steak
Glass Flute
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor and aroma are very low to low, deriving from
noble-type hops. Hop bitterness is medium
Malt Aroma/Flavor Sweet malt flavor can be low and should not be caramellike
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Munich
Palate Body Moderate
Water Gypsum, Chalk
YAT
Type Lager
GRMAN-TYL HLL
“Helles” means “pale in color,” as these beers are often golden. They are similar in flavor to adjunct-influenced lagers, but possess more advanced
pilsener malt flavor and have a touch more sweetness, and are less dry in the finish. A full-bodied lager that puts pilsener malt flavors forward and can
be perceived as bready. A slight sweetness permeates with just a hint of hop spiciness. Clean and crisp, this is a refreshing beer with substance. Low
levels of yeast-produced sulfur aromas and flavors may be common.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.050
1.008 - 1.012
4.8% - 5.6%
18 - 25
0.41 - 0.50
4 - 5.5
2 - 2.5
76 - 82
Summer Pils Saint Arnold Brewing Co.
Session Premium Lager Full Sail Brewing Co.
Helles Festbier Hoppers Grill & Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Pale to Golden
Clear to Brilliant
Germany
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Colby
Entrée Samosas
Dessert Baklava
Glass Flute
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma is not perceived to low. Hop flavor and
bitterness are very low to low, deriving from European
noble-type hops
Malt Aroma/Flavor Malt character is sometimes bread-like, yet always
reminiscent of freshly and very lightly toasted malted barley
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Munich
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager
Phenols Not common to style.
GRMAN-TYL PILNR
A classic German-style pilsener is straw to pale in color. A malty residual sweetness can be perceived in aroma and flavor. Perception of hop
bitterness is medium to high. Noble-type hop aroma and flavor are moderate and quite obvious. Distinctly different from Bohemian-style pilsener, this
style is lighter in color and body and has a lower perceived hop bitterness.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.055
1.006 - 1.012
4.6% - 5.3%
25 - 40
0.57 - 0.73
3 - 4
2 - 2.5
78 - 86
Pivo Pils Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
Paintbrush Pilsener Snake River Brewing Co.
Prima PIls Victory Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Not Detectable
Straw to Pale
Brilliant
Germany
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese White Cheddar
Entrée Shellfish, Chicken, Salads
Dessert Shortbread Cookies
Glass Flute
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor is moderate and quite obvious, deriving from late
hopping (not dry-hopping) with noble-type hops. Hop
bitterness is medium to high
Malt Aroma/Flavor A sweet, malty residual aroma can be perceived
Palate Body Soft
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Lager
Not common to style
Very low levels of DMS aroma may be present, usually
below most beer drinkers’ taste thresholds and not
detectable except to the trained or sensitive palate
AMRICAN AMR AL
tle Famil: Pale Ale
American-style amber ales have medium-high to high maltiness with medium to low caramel character. They are characterized by American-variety
hops, which produce medium hop bitterness, flavor and aroma. American ambers are usually darker in color, have more caramel flavor and less hop
aromatics, and may have more body. This style was first made popular by brewers from California and the Pacific Northwest.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.048 - 1.058
1.012 - 1.018
4.4% - 6.1%
25 - 45
0.62 - 0.78
11 - 18
2 - 2.5
69 - 75
HopBack Amber Ale Troegs Brewing Co.
Boont Amber Anderson Valley Brewing Co.
Red Seal North Coast Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
Copper to Reddish Brown
United States
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Medium Cheddar
Entrée Barbecue
Dessert Banana Pound Cake
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Tulip
Citrus-like character is acceptable
Horizon, Cascade, Centennial
Caramel
English Pale Ale or American Two-Row, Crystal, Victory
Mouth-Coating
Medium to High
Short to Medium
45-55°F
Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters There may below levels of fruity-ester flavor
AMRICAN PAL AL
An American interpretation of a classic English style. Characterized by floral, fruity, citrus-like, piney, resinous, or sulfur-like American-variety hop
character, producing medium to medium-high hop bitterness, flavor and aroma. American-style pale ales have medium body and low to medium
maltiness that may include low caramel malt character.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.050
1.008 - 1.014
4.4% - 5.4%
20 - 45
0.68 - 1.00
3 - 14
2 - 2.5
72 - 82
Pale Ale Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Pale Lumberyard Brewing Co.
Mirror Pond Deschutes Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Dry-hopping or late hop additions to the kettle are common
Deep Golden to Copper or Light Brown
United States
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Mild or Medium Cheddar
Entrée Roasted or Grilled Meats
Dessert Apple Pie
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are medium to medium-high,
exhibiting fruity, floral, and citrus-like American-variety hop
aromas. Hop bitterness is medium to medium-high
Hop Ingredients Horizon, Cascade, Centennial
Malt Aroma/Flavor Biscuit, Bready, Caramel
Malt Ingredients Pale, Caramel, Munich
Palate Body Soft
Water Sulfite content may vary, but carbonate content should be
relatively low
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Citrus, Tropical Fruit, Pine
NGLIH-TYL ITTR
A very sessionable, lower-alcohol, malt-driven style. Broad style description commonly associated with cask-conditioned beers. The light- to mediumbodied ordinary bitter is gold to copper in color, with a low residual malt sweetness. Hop bitterness is medium.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.033 - 1.038
1.006 - 1.012
3.0% - 4.2%
20 - 35
0.61 - 0.92
5 - 12
1 - 1.5
68 - 82
Sawtooth Left Hand Brewing Co.
Pale Ale Rio Blanco Brewing Co.
Cutthroat Ale Uinta Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Gold to Copper
Clear to Brilliant
United Kingdom
Poor
Thin
Slow Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Firm English Cheeses
Entrée Roasted Chicken, Fish and Chips
Dessert Oatmeal Raisin Walnut Cookies
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Nonic Pint
Hop aroma may be evident at the brewer's discretion
Kent Goldings
Low to medium residual malt sweetness is present
British Pale Ale, Aromatic, Crystal, Special Roast
Drying to Soft
Low
Short
50-55°F
Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale
Not common to style
Fruity esters are common.
Low-level diacetyl aromas and flavor are acceptable
LOND AL
One of the most approachable styles, a golden or blonde ale is an easy-drinking beer that is visually appealing and has no particularly dominating malt
or hop characteristics. Rounded and smooth, it is an American classic known for its simplicity. Sometimes referred to as “golden ale.” These beers can
have honey, spices and fruit added, and may be fermented with lager or ale yeast.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.045 - 1.054
1.008 - 1.016
4.1% - 5.1%
15 - 25
0.33 - 0.45
3 - 7
2 - 2.5
71 - 82
True Blonde Ale Ska Brewing Co.
Foam Top Beachwood Brewery & BBQ
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
United States
Good
Thin to Interrupted
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Pepper Jack
Entrée Spaghetti and Meatballs
Dessert Sugar Cookies
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma is low to medium-low, present but not dominant.
Hop bitterness is low to medium-low.
Hop Ingredients Williamette
Malt Aroma/Flavor Light malt sweetness is present in the flavor. Bread, toast,
biscuit and wheat flavors are common.
Malt Ingredients American Two-Row, Crystal
Other ingredients May include up to 25 percent Malted Wheat and sugar
adjuncts.
Palate Body Soft
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager or Ale
Esters Fruity esters may be perceived but not predominant.
NGLIH-TYL PAL AL/
ESB stands for “extra special bitter.” This style is known for its balance and the interplay between malt and hop bitterness. English pale ales display
earthy, herbal English-variety hop character. Medium to high hop bitterness, flavor and aroma should be evident. The yeast strains used in these beers
lend a fruitiness to their aromatics and flavor, referred to as esters. The residual malt and defining sweetness of this richly flavored, full-bodied bitter is
medium to medium-high.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.040 - 1.056
1.008 - 1.016
4.4% - 5.3%
20 - 40
0.50 - 0.71
5 - 12
1.5 - 2
71 - 80
5 Barrel Pale Ale Odell Brewing Co.
Royal Scandal Peticolas Brewing Co.
Moondog Ale Great Lakes Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
Gold to Copper
Clear to Brilliant
United Kingdom
Poor
Thin
Slow Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese English-Style Cheeses
Entrée Roasted Chicken, Fish and Chips
Dessert Maple Bread Pudding
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor is medium to medium-high. Hop bitterness is
medium to medium-high
Malt Aroma/Flavor Residual malt and defining sweetness is medium to
medium-high
Malt Ingredients British Pale Ale, Crystal
Other ingredients Some versions use sugar, corn or wheat
Palate Carbonation Low
Water Some versions use medium to high sulfate
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity-ester and very low diacetyl flavors are acceptable,
but should be minimized in this form of bitter
AMRICAN INDIA PAL AL/IPA
tle Famil: India Pale Ale
Characterized by floral, fruity, citrus-like, piney or resinous American-variety hop character, this style is all about hop flavor, aroma and bitterness. This
has been the most-entered category at the Great American Beer Festival for more than a decade, and is the top-selling craft beer style in
supermarkets and liquor stores across the U.S.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.060 - 1.075
1.012 - 1.018
6.3% - 7.6%
50 - 70
0.83 - 0.93
6 - 14
2 - 2.5
76 - 80
Pallet Jack IPA Barley Brown Beer
IPA Tap It Brewing Co.
Union Jack Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
Dry-hopping is common
Gold to Copper, Red/Brown
United States
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Blue Cheeses
Entrée Spicy Tuna Roll
Dessert Persimmon Rice Pudding
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma is high and hop flavor is strong both with floral
qualities and citrus-like, piney, resinous or sulfur-like
American-variety hop character. Hop bitterness is mediumhigh to very high
Hop Ingredients Centennial, Simcoe, Amarillo
Malt Aroma/Flavor Biscuit, Bready, Caramel
Malt Ingredients American Two-Row
Palate Body Soft to Sticky
Water High mineral content
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Citrus, Tropical Fruit, Pine
NGLIH-TYL INDIA PAL AL/IPA
Steeped in lore (and extra hops), the IPA is a stronger version of a pale ale. Characterized by stiff English-style hop character (earthy, floral) and
increased alcohol content. English yeast lends a fruity flavor and aroma. Different from its American counterpart, this style strikes a balance between
malt and hops for a more rounded flavor. There is also a lot of mythology surrounding the creation of this style, which is still debated today.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.050 - 1.064
1.012 - 1.018
5.1% - 7.1%
35 - 63
0.70 - 0.98
6 - 14
2 - 2.5
72 - 76
Taproom IPA Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
Sam Adams Lattitude 48 Hallertau Mittelfrueh
Boston Beer Co.
East India IPA Brooklyn Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Not Detectable to Noticeable
Gold to Copper
United Kingdom
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Aged Cheddar
Entrée Fettuccine Alfredo
Dessert Ginger Spice Cake
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma is medium to high, often flowery. Hop flavor and
bitterness are medium to high. Earthy and herbal Englishvariety hop character is perceived, but may be a result of
the skillful use of hops of other national origins
Malt Aroma/Flavor Bready, Biscuit, Toast, Caramel, Toffee
Malt Ingredients British Pale Ale, Crystal, Biscuit
Water High mineral content. May include subtle sulfur content
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale
Not common to style
Fruity ester aromas are moderate to very strong
Diacetyl can be absent or may be perceived at very low
levels
IMPRIAL INDIA PAL AL
High hop bitterness, flavor and aroma. Hop character is fresh and evident from utilization of any variety of hops. Alcohol content is medium-high to
high and notably evident with a medium-high to full body. The intention of this style is to exhibit the fresh and evident character of hops.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.075 - 1.100
1.012 - 1.020
7.6% - 10.6%
65 - 100
0.87 - 1.00
5 - 16
2 - 2.5
80 - 84
Hop JuJu Fat Heads Brewery
2x4 Thai Me Up Brewery
Furious Surly Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Noticeable
Gold to Light Brown
Clear to Hazy
United States
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Rich Cheeses
Entrée Bone-In Pork Chops, Miso Salmon
Dessert Carrot Cake
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor and aroma are very high, should be fresh and
lively and should not be harsh in quality, deriving from any
variety of hops. Hop bitterness is very high but not harsh
Malt Aroma/Flavor Malt character is medium to high
Malt Ingredients American Two-Row, Crystal, Malted Wheat
Palate Length/Finish Long
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity ester aroma and flavor are high.
AMRICAN ROWN AL
tle Famil: rown Ale
Roasted malt, caramel-like and chocolate-like characters should be of medium intensity in both flavor and aroma. American-style brown ales have
evident low to medium hop flavor and aroma and medium to high hop bitterness. The history of this style dates back to U.S. homebrewers who were
inspired by English-style brown ales and porters. It sits in flavor between those British styles and is more bitter than both.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.040 - 1.060
1.010 - 1.018
4.2% - 6.3%
25 - 45
0.62 - 0.75
15 - 26
2 - 2.5
70 - 75
Face Down Brown Telluride Brewing Co.
Brown Brooklyn Brewery
Moose Drool Big Sky Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
May be dry-hopped
Deep Copper to Very Dark Brown
Clear
United States
Poor to Moderate
Thin to Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Aged Gouda
Dessert Pear Fritters
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are low to medium. Hop bitterness is
medium to high
Hop Ingredients U.S., U.K., Noble
Malt Aroma/Flavor Caramel, Chocolate, Toast
Malt Ingredients Pale, Crystal, Chocolate, Victory
Palate Body Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity-ester flavors, if present, should be subdued
NGLIH-TYL ROWN AL
English-style brown ales range from dryer (Northern English) to sweeter (Southern English) maltiness. Roast malt tones (chocolate, nutty) may
sometimes contribute to the flavor and aroma profile. Hop bitterness is very low to low, with very little hop flavor and aroma. Known for rich and
advanced malt aroma and flavor without centering too much on hops, this style is extremely sessionable and food-friendly.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.040 - 1.050
1.008 - 1.014
4.2% - 6.0%
15 - 25
0.38 - 0.50
12 - 17
1 - 1.5
72 - 80
Bandit Brown City Star Brewing
Nautical Nut Brown AleSmith Brewing Co.
Ellie's Brown Avery Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Copper to Very Dark
Clear
United Kingdom
Poor
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Aged Gouda
Entrée Roasted Pork, Steak, Nuts
Dessert Pear Fritters
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor is very low. Hop bitterness is very low
to low
Malt Aroma/Flavor Balance ranges from dry to sweet maltiness. Roast malt
tones of toffee, nuts and caramel sometimes contribute to
the flavor profile
Malt Ingredients Pale Ale, Special Roast, Victory, Crystal, Pale Chocolate
Palate Body Soft
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale
Not common to style
Fruit (varies)
Diacetyl should be very low, if evident
NGLIH-TYL MILD
Malt and caramel are part of the flavor and aroma profile, while licorice and roast malt tones may sometimes contribute as well. Hop bitterness is very
low to low. U.S. brewers are known to make lighter-colored versions as well as the more common “dark mild.” These beers are very low in alcohol, yet
often are still medium-bodied due to increased dextrin malts.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.030 - 1.036
1.004 - 1.008
3.4% - 4.4%
10 - 24
0.33 - 0.67
17 - 34
1 - 1.5
78 - 87
SS Minnow Mild Dry Dock Brewing Co.
Bristlecone Uinta Brewing Co.
Ghetto Blaster Motor City Brewing Works
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Not Detectable
Reddish Brown to Very Dark
United Kingdom
Poor
Thin
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Mild Cheddar
Entrée Mushrooms and Wild Game
Dessert Dark Fruit Tart
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Other ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Nonic Pint
Hop flavor is low to very low
Kent Goldings
Caramel, Chocolate, Coffee, Licorice, Raisin, Molasses.
Malt flavors dominate the flavor profile
British Pale Ale, Crystal, Pale Chocolate, Black Patent
Sugar (occasionally)
Soft to Mouth-Coating
Low to Medium
Short to Medium
50-55°F
Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale
Not common to style
Fruity-ester flavors, if present, are very low to medium-low
Diactyl at low levels is common
COTCH AL/W HAVY
tle Famil: cottih-tle Ale
Scotch ales are overwhelmingly malty, with a rich and dominant sweet malt flavor and aroma. A caramel character is often part of the profile. Some
examples feature a light smoked peat flavor. This style could be considered the Scottish version of an English-style barley wine. Overly smoked
versions would be considered specialty examples.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.072 - 1.085
1.016 - 1.028
6.6% - 8.5%
25 - 35
0.35 - 0.41
15 - 30
2 - 2.5
67 - 78
Wee Heavy Dry Dock Brewing Co.
Way Heavy Pizza Port Brewing Co.
Dirty Bastard Founders Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol Noticeable to Hot
Brewing/Conditioning Process Traditionally, cooler ale fermentation temperatures were
common
Color Light Reddish Brown to Very Dark
Clarity Clear
Country of Origin Scotland / United Kingdom
Collar of Foam (Texture) Thin
Carbonation (Visual) Medium Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Pungent Cheeses
Entrée Variety of Meats and Game
Dessert Creamy Desserts with Fruit
Glass Thistle
low but perceptible
Malt Aroma/Flavor Dominated by a smooth, balanced sweet maltiness. Will
also have a medium degree of malty, caramel-like aroma
and flavor
Malt Ingredients British Pale Ale, Crystal, Honey, Pale Chocolate, Munich
and even Roasted Barley
Water Soft Water (occasionally)
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Plums, Raisin, Dried Fruit. A peaty/smoky character may be
evident at low levels
Fermentation Byproducts Yeast characters such as diacetyl and sulfur are acceptable
at very low levels
COTTIH-TYL AL
tle Famil: cottih-tle Ale
Scottish-style ales vary depending on strength and flavor, but in general retain a malt-forward character with some degree of caramel-like malt flavors
and a soft and chewy mouthfeel. Some examples feature a light smoked peat flavor. Hops do not play a huge role in this style. The numbers
commonly associated with brands of this style (60/70/80 and others) reflect the Scottish tradition of listing the cost, in shillings, of a hogshead (large
cask) of beer. Overly smoked versions would be considered specialty examples. Smoke or peat should be restrained.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.030 - 1.050
1.006 - 1.018
2.8% - 5.3%
9 - 25
0.30 - 0.50
6 - 15
1.5 - 2
64 - 80
Scottish Ale Campbell Brewing Co.
Wee Heavy Maui Brewing Co.
Kilt Lifter Four Peaks Brewery
tle A-Z
Brewing/Conditioning Process High-temperature mash is common to emphasize a more
dextrinous wort, lending bigger body and mouthfeel and
decreasing fermentable sugars. Traditionally, cooler ale
fermentation temperatures were common.
Color Golden to Dark Chestnut or Brown
Clarity Clear
Country of Origin Scotland / United Kingdom
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Pungent Cheeses
Entrée Variety of Meats and Game
Glass Thistle
low.
Malt Aroma/Flavor Caramel, Toffee
Malt Ingredients British Pale Ale, Crystal, Honey, Pale Chocolate, Munich
and even Roasted Barley
Other ingredients Wheat Malt, Sugar (occasionally)
Palate Body Soft
Water High carbonate water
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale
Peaty, Earthy, Smoky
Diacetyl and sulfur are acceptable at very low levels.
GRMAN-TYL OCK
tle Famil: ock
Traditional bocks are all-malt brews and are high in malt sweetness. Malt character should be a balance of sweetness and toasted or nut-like malt.
“Bock” translates as “goat”!
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.066 - 1.074
1.018 - 1.024
6.3% - 7.6%
20 - 30
0.30 - 0.41
20 - 30
2.5 approximately
68 - 73
Troegenator Double Bock Troegs Brewing Co.
Butt Head Bock Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub
Rockefeller Bock Great Lakes Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
Dark Brown to Very Dark
Clear
Germany
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Aged Swiss
Entrée Grilled Rib-Eye
Dessert Chocolate
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor is low. Hop bitterness is perceived as medium,
increasing proportionately with starting gravity
Malt Aroma/Flavor High malt character with aromas of toasted or nut-like malt,
but not caramel
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Munich, CaraMunich, Meussdoerffer Rost,
Melanoidin
Palate Body Soft
YAT
Type Lager
Esters Fruity-ester aromas should be minimal, if present
GRMAN-TYL DOPPLOCK
“Doppel” meaning “double,” this style is a bigger and stronger version of the lower-gravity German-style bock beers. Originally made by monks in
Munich, this style is very food-friendly and rich in mellanoidins reminiscent of toasted bread. Color is copper to dark brown. Malty sweetness is
dominant but should not be cloying. Malt character is more reminiscent of fresh and lightly toasted Munich-style malt, more so than caramel or toffee
malt. Doppelbocks are full-bodied, and alcoholic strength is on the higher end.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.074 - 1.080
1.014 - 1.020
6.6% - 7.9%
17 - 27
0.23 - 0.34
12 - 30
2.5 approximately
75 - 81
Samuel Adams Double Bock Boston Beer Co.
Uber Bock Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co.
Consecrator Bell's Brewery, Inc.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
Copper to Dark Brown
Clear
Germany
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Strong Cheeses
Entrée Pork or Ham
Dessert German Chocolate Cake
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma should be absent. Hop flavor and bitterness are
low
Malt Aroma/Flavor Dominant aromas are reminiscent of fresh and lightly
toasted Munich-style malt, more so than caramel or toffee.
Some elements of caramel and toffee can be evident in
aroma and contribute to complexity, but the predominant
malt aroma is an expression of toasted barley
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Munich, Vienna, CaraMunich
Palate Body Soft
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager
Esters Prune, Plum, Grape
GRMAN-TYL MAIOCK
Sometimes also called “heller bock” (meaning “pale bock”), this style is paler in color and more hop-centric than traditional bock beers. A lightly
toasted and/or bready malt character is often evident.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.066 - 1.074
1.012 - 1.020
6.3% - 8.1%
20 - 38
0.30 - 0.51
4 - 9
2.5 approximately
73 - 82
Elixir Maibock Abita Brewery
Maibock Mad Fox Brewing Co.
Maibock Smuttynose Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
Pale to Light Amber
Clear
Germany
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Swiss
Entrée Ham
Dessert White Chocolate Cheesecake
Glass Goblet
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are low to medium low, deriving from
noble-type hops. Hop bitterness is low
Malt Aroma/Flavor A lightly toasted and/or bready malt aroma is often evident.
Roasted or heavy toast/caramel malt aromas should be
absent
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Munich, Vienna
Palate Body Soft
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager
Esters Fruity-ester flavors may be low, if present
GRMAN-TYL WIZNOCK
This beer is a wheat version of a German-style bock, or a bigger and beefier dunkelweizen. Malt mellanoidins and weizen ale yeast are the star
ingredients. If served with yeast, the appearance may appropriately be very cloudy.With flavors of bready malt and dark fruits like plum, raisin, and
grape, this style is low on bitterness and high on carbonation. Balanced clove-like phenols and fruity, banana-like esters produce a well-rounded
aroma.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.066 - 1.080
1.016 - 1.028
7.0% - 9.5%
15 - 35
0.23 - 0.44
4.5 - 30
2.5 - 3
65 - 76
Weizenbock Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Moonglow Victory Brewing Co.
Weizenbock AleSmith Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
A decoction mash is commonly used. Unfiltered and yeasty
Gold to Very Dark
Hazy
Germany
Good
Mousse-like
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Manchego
Entrée Chicken and Dumplings
Dessert Banana Bread
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Tulip
Hop aroma is not perceived. Hop bitterness is low
German Noble
Nutmeg, vanilla, caramel, plums, prunes, raisins, grapes
and cocoa, with rum and brandy flavors to boot. Medium
malty sweetness is present. If dark, a mild roasted malt
aroma and flavor should emerge
Malted Wheat, Munich, Special "B", Crystal, Pale Chocolate
Moderate to Mouth-Coating
Medium
Medium to Long
45-55°F
Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Weizen Ale
Clove
Fruity-ester and banana-like elements
If served with yeast, appearance may appropriately be very
cloudy
AMRICAN IMPRIAL PORTR
tle Famil: Porter
Definitively American, these porters should have no roasted barley flavors or strong burnt/black malt character. Medium caramel and cocoa-like
sweetness is present, with complementing hop character and malt-derived sweetness.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.080 - 1.100
1.020 - 1.030
7.0% - 12.0%
35 - 50
0.44 - 0.50
40+
2 - 2.5
70 - 75
Gonzo Imperial Porter Flying Dog Brewery
Northstar Imperial Porter Twisted Pine Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Noticeable
Black
Opaque
United States
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Smoked Gouda
Entrée Chicken Mole Enchiladas
Dessert Blondie Butterscotch Brownies
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are low to medium-high. Hop
bitterness is medium-low to medium
Malt Aroma/Flavor No roasted barley or strong burnt/black malt character
should be perceived. Medium malt, caramel and cocoa-like
sweetness is present
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Ale-like fruity ester flavors should be evident but not
overpowering, complementing hop character and maltderived sweetness
Fermentation Byproducts Diacetyl should be absent
ALTIC-TYL PORTR
A smooth, cold-fermented and cold-lagered beer brewed with lager yeast. Because of its alcoholic strength, it may include very low to low complex
alcohol flavors and/or lager fruitiness such as berries, grapes and plums (but not banana; ale-like fruitiness from warm-temperature fermentation is not
appropriate). This style has the malt flavors of a brown porter and the roast of a schwarzbier, but is bigger in alcohol and body.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.072 - 1.092
1.016 - 1.022
7.6% - 9.3%
35 - 40
0.47 - 0.49
40+
2 - 2.5
76 - 78
Black Eagle Baltic Porter Black Tooth Brewing Co.
Battle Axe Baltic Porter Fat Head's Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Noticeable
Brewed with lager yeast and cold-fermented
Very Deep Ruby or Garnet to Black
Clear to Opaque
United Kingdom
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Aged Gouda
Entrée Prime Rib
Dessert Deconstructed S'mores
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are very low. Hop bitterness is low to
medium-low
Malt Aroma/Flavor Distinctive malt aromas of caramelized sugars, licorice, and
chocolate-like notes of roasted malts and dark sugars are
present. Roasted dark malts sometimes contribute a coffeelike roasted barley aroma. Low smoky aroma from malt may
be evident. Debittered roasted malts are best used for this
style
Malt Ingredients Munich, Vienna, Pilsner, Crystal, Special "B", Carafa
Special II, Chocolate
Water Varies
YAT
Type Lager
Esters May include very low to low complex alcohol flavors and/or
lager fruitiness such as berries, grapes, plums, but not
banana; ale-like fruitiness from warm temperature
fermentation is not appropriate
Fermentation Byproducts Diacetyl and DMS flavors should not be apparent
NGLIH-TYL ROWN PORTR
Brown porters have no roasted barley or strong burnt/black malt character. Low to medium malt sweetness, caramel and chocolate is acceptable. Hop
bitterness is medium. Softer, sweeter and more caramel-like than a robust porter, with less alcohol and body. Porters are the precursor style to stouts.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.040 - 1.050
1.006 - 1.014
4.4% - 6.0%
20 - 30
0.50 - 0.60
30 - 35
1.5 - 2
72 - 85
Old Tom Porter Piney River Brewing Co.
Pluff Mud Porter Holy City Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
Dark Brown (may have red tint) to Very Dark
Opaque
United Kingdom
Moderate
Foamy
Slow to Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Gruyere
Dessert Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are not perceived to medium. Hop
bitterness is medium
Hop Ingredients Fuggles
Malt Aroma/Flavor Nutty, Chocolate, Caramel, Bready, Toffee
Malt Ingredients British Pale Ale, Brown, Crystal, Chocolate
Other ingredients May contain additional sugar sources
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity esters may be present
ROUT PORTR
Often features more bitter and roasted malt flavor than a brown porter, but not quite as much as a stout. Robust porters have a roast malt flavor, often
reminiscent of cocoa, but no roast barley flavor. Their caramel and malty sweetness is in harmony with the sharp bitterness of black malt. Hop
bitterness is evident. With U.S. craft brewers doing so much experimentation in beer styles and ingredients, the lines between certain stouts and
porters are often blurred. Yet many deliberate examples of these styles do exist. Diacetyl is acceptable at very low levels.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.045 - 1.060
1.008 - 1.016
5.1% - 6.6%
25 - 40
0.56 - 0.67
30+
2 - 2.5
73 - 82
Pig Iron Porter Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
Moonlight Porter Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
Black Butte Porter Deschutes Brewery
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
Very Dark to Black
Opaque
United Kingdom
Good
Foamy
Slow to Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Gruyere
Dessert Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are very low to medium. Hop
Hop Ingredients Kent Goldings, Fuggles
Malt Aroma/Flavor Grainy, Bready, Toffee, Caramel, Chocolate, Coffee.
Caramel and other malty sweetness is in harmony with the
sharp bitterness of black malt, without a highly
burnt/charcoal flavor
Malt Ingredients Munich, Crystal, Chocolate, Black Patent
Other ingredients May contain roasted barley
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity esters should be evident, balanced with all other
characters
Fermentation Byproducts Diacetyl is acceptable at very low levels
MOK PORTR
Typically the base for this style is a robust porter that is given smoky depth thanks to wood-smoked malt. Traditionally, brewers will cite the specific
wood used to smoke the malt, and different woods will lend different flavors to the finished product. Smoke flavors dissipate over time.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.050 - 1.065
1.010 - 1.018
5.1% - 8.9%
20 - 40
0.40 - 0.62
20+
Varies
72 - 80
Smoked Porter Alaskan Brewing Co.
Smoked Porter Stone Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Varies
Use of smoked malts is common
Dark Brown to Black
Varies
Undetermined
Varies
Varies
Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Red Dragon Cheddar
Entrée Grilled Sausage
Dessert S'mores
Glass Tulip
bitterness is medium to medium-high
Hop Ingredients Kent Goldings, Willamette
Malt Aroma/Flavor Black malt character can be perceived in some porters,
while others may be absent of strong roasted character.
Medium to high malt sweetness, caramel and chocolate are
acceptable
Malt Ingredients Crystal, Chocolate, Black Patent
Other ingredients Common woods used by U.S. craft brewers to smoke a
variety of malts: Apple, Alder, Beech, Cherry, Hickory,
Mesquite, Oak
Palate Body Soft
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity-ester aroma is acceptable. A mild to assertive smoke
malt aroma will be in balance with other aroma characters
AMRICAN IMPRIAL TOUT
tle Famil: tout
American-style imperial stouts are the strongest in alcohol and body of the stouts. Black in color, these beers typically have an extremely rich malty
flavor and aroma with full, sweet malt character. Bitterness can come from roasted malts or hop additions.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.080 - 1.100
1.020 - 1.030
7.0% - 12.0%
50 - 80
0.62 - 0.80
40+
2 - 2.5
70 - 75
Epeteios Left Coast Brewing
Anastasia Russian Imperial Stout Weasel Boy Brewing Co.
Yeti Great Divide Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Noticeable
Black
Opaque
United Kingdom
Moderate
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Aged Cheeses
Entrée Foie Gras
Dessert Flour-less Chocolate Cake
Glass Snifter
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are medium-high to high, with floral,
citrus and/or herbal hop aromas. Hop bitterness is mediumhigh to very high and balanced with the malt character
Hop Ingredients Horizon, Kent Goldings
Malt Aroma/Flavor Bittersweet Chocolate, Cocoa, Coffee
Malt Ingredients Pale, Black Roasted Barley, Special "B", CaraMunich,
Chocolate, Pale Chocolate
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity esters are generally high
AMRICAN TOUT
A coffee- and chocolate-forward ale, but with a hop aroma and flavor, often from a citrus-forward variety. American stouts are bold, with a distinctive
dry-roasted bitterness in the finish. Fruity esters should be low, but head retention high. The addition of oatmeal is acceptable in this style and lends to
the body and head retention.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.050 - 1.075
1.010 - 1.022
5.7% - 8.9%
35 - 60
0.70 - 0.80
40+
2.5 - 3
71 - 80
Shakespeare Stout Rogue Ales
Obsidian Stout Deschutes Brewery
tle A-Z
Brewing/Conditioning Process Additional ingredients such as coffee, chocolate, vanilla
beans, cherries are common, as is oak aging
Color Black
Clarity Clear to Opaque
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Sharp Cheddar
Entrée Grilled Lamb
Dessert Coffee Cake
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are medium to high, often with
American citrus-type and/or resiny hop aromas. Hop
Hop Ingredients Horizon, Centennial
Malt Aroma/Flavor Low to medium malt sweetness with low to medium
caramel, chocolate, and/or roasted coffee flavor is present,
with a distinctive dry-roasted bitterness in the finish. The
contribution of roasted barley and roasted malt to
astringency is low and not excessive. Slight roasted malt
acidity is acceptable
Malt Ingredients Pale, Black Roasted Barley, Chocolate, Crystal
Other ingredients Oats (occasionally)
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity-esters flavors are low, if present
NGLIH-TYL OATMAL TOUT
The addition of oatmeal adds a smooth, rich body to these beers. Oatmeal stouts are dark brown to black in color. Roasted malt character is caramellike and chocolate-like, and should be smooth and not bitter. Coffee-like roasted barley and malt aromas are prominent. This low- to medium-alcohol
style is packed with darker malt flavors and a rich and oily body from oatmeal.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.038 - 1.056
1.008 - 1.020
3.8% - 6.1%
20 - 40
0.53 - 0.71
20+
2 - 2.5
64 - 79
Stagecoach Stout Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co.
Back Road Stout Millstream Brewing Co.
Velvet Merlin Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
Dark Brown to Black
Opaque
United Kingdom
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Aged Cheddar
Entrée Chicken in Mole Sauce
Dessert Sweet Potato Cheesecake
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are optional, but should not
overpower the overall balance if present. Hop bitterness is
medium
Malt Aroma/Flavor Coffee-like roasted barley and roasted malt aromas are
prominent. Caramel-like and chocolate-like roasted malt
aroma should be evident
Malt Ingredients Pale, Flaked Oats, Chocolate, Victory, Crystal, Black
Roasted Barley
Other ingredients Oats
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale
Not common to style
Fruity ester flavors are very low
Diacetyl should be absent or at extremely low levels
NGLIH-TYL WT TOUT (MILK TOUT)
Sweet stout, also referred to as cream stout or milk stout, is black in color. Malt sweetness, chocolate and caramel should dominate the flavor profile
and contribute to the aroma. It also should have a low to medium-low roasted malt/barley-derived bitterness. Milk sugar (lactose) lends the style more
body. This beer does use lactose sugar, so people with an intolerance should probably avoid this style.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.045 - 1.056
1.012 - 1.020
3.2% - 6.3%
15 - 25
0.33 - 0.45
40+
1.5 - 2
64 - 73
Milk Stout Left Hand Brewing Co.
Udder Love Beachwood Brewery & BBQ
Samuel Adams Cream Stout Boston Beer Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
Black
Opaque
United Kingdom
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Buttery Cheddar
Entrée Mexican Mole, Spicy BBQ
Dessert Chocolate Cake, Ice Cream
Glass Nonic Pint
low to medium-low and serves to balance and suppress
some of the sweetness without contributing apparent flavor
nor aroma
Malt Aroma/Flavor Malt sweetness, chocolate, and caramel should dominate
the flavor profile. Malt bitterness is low to medium-low and
derived from roasted malt or barley
Malt Ingredients British Pale Ale, Black Patent, Pale Chocolate, Crystal
Other ingredients Lactose
Water High carbonate water
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity ester flavors are low, if present
IRIH-TYL DRY TOUT
Dry stouts are black. These beers achieve a dry-roasted character through the use of roasted barley. The emphasis on coffee-like roasted barley and
a moderate degree of roasted malt aromas define much of the character. Hop bitterness is medium to medium high. This beer is often dispensed via
nitrogen gas taps that lend a smooth, creamy body to the palate.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.038 - 1.048
1.008 - 1.012
4.2% - 5.3%
30 - 40
0.79 - 0.83
40+
1 - 1.5
75 - 79
Blarney Sisters Dry Irish Stout Third Street Aleworks
Seaside Stout Pizza Port Brewing Co.
O.V.L. Stout Russian River Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Not Detectable
Black
Clear to Opaque
Ireland
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Irish Cheddar
Entrée Seafood (Oysters), Ham
Dessert Chocolate Desserts
Glass Nonic Pint
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are are not perceived to low, from
European-type hops. Hop bitterness is medium to medium
high
Malt Aroma/Flavor Dry stouts achieve a dry-roasted character through the use
of roasted barley. Initial malt and light caramel flavors give
way to a distinctive dry-roasted bitterness in the finish.
Emphasis of coffee-like roasted barley and a moderate
degree of roasted malt flavors define much of the character
Malt Ingredients British Pale Ale, Flaked Barley, Black Roasted Barley
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity esters are minimal and overshadowed by malt, high
hop bitterness and roasted barley character
Fermentation Byproducts Diacetyl should be very low, if evident
LGIAN-TYL LOND AL
tle Famil: elgian tle
Typically easy-drinking, with a low but pleasing hop bitterness. This is a light- to medium-bodied ale, with a low malt aroma that has a spiced and
sometimes fruity-ester character. Sugar is sometimes added to lighten the perceived body. This style is medium in sweetness and not as bitter as
Belgian-style tripels or golden strong ales. It is usually brilliantly clear. The overall impression is balance between light sweetness, spice and low to
medium fruity ester flavors.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.054 - 1.068
1.008 - 1.015
6.3% - 7.9%
15 - 30
0.28 - 0.44
4 - 7
3 - 4
78 - 85
Blonde Allagash Brewing Co.
Tiburon Blonde Marin Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
Pale to Light Amber
Clear to Brilliant
Belgium
Good
Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Brie
Entrée Sweet and Sour Chicken
Dessert Angel Food Cake
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor and aroma are not perceived to low. Hop
bitterness is very low to low
Hop Ingredients Hallertau
Malt Aroma/Flavor Malt aroma and flavor are low
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Malted Wheat, Aromatic
Other ingredients Belgian Candi Sugar (occasionally)
Palate Body Soft to Moderate
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Phenols Spicy
Esters Low to medium fruity-ester aromas may be present and
balanced with light malt and spice aromas
LGIAN-TYL DUL
Belgian-style dubbels range from brown to very dark in color. They have a malty sweetness and can have cocoa and caramel aromas and flavors. Hop
bitterness is medium-low to medium. Yeast-generated fruity esters (especially banana) can be apparent. Often bottle-conditioned, a slight yeast haze
and flavor may be evident. “Dubbel” meaning “double,” this beer is still not so big in intensity as to surpass the Belgian-style quadrupel that is often
considered its sibling.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.060 - 1.075
1.012 - 1.016
6.3% - 7.6%
20 - 35
0.33 - 0.40
16 - 36
3 - 4
79 - 80
Brother David's Double Anderson Valley Brewing Co.
Abbey New Belgium Brewing Co.
Double Allagash Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Brewing/Conditioning Process Sometimes extended boiling time results in kettle
caramelization. Usually bottle conditioned
Color Brown to Very Dark
Clarity Clear to Slight Haze
Country of Origin Belgium
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Washed-Rind Cheeses
Entrée Apple-Smoked Sausage
Dessert Milk Chocolate
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are not perceived to low. Hop
bitterness is medium-low to medium
Hop Ingredients Tettnang
Malt Aroma/Flavor Chocolate, Caramel, Toast
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, CaraMunich, Special "B"
Other ingredients Belgian Candi Sugar, Other Sugars
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale
Spicy, Pepper, Rose-like, Perfumy
Fruit (Banana)
Slight yeast haze is often evident when bottle-conditioned
LGIAN-TYL GOLDN TRONG AL
These beers are fruity, complex and often on the higher end of the ABV spectrum, yet are approachable to many different palates. Look for a
characteristic spiciness from Belgian yeast and a highly attenuated dry finish. This style is traditionally drier and lighter in color than a Belgian-style
tripel.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.064 - 1.096
1.008 - 1.024
7.1% - 11.2%
20 - 50
0.31 - 0.52
3.5 - 10
4 approximately
75 - 88
Pranqster North Coast Brewing Co.
Brooklyn Local 1 Brooklyn Brewery
Hades Great Divide Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
Bottle-conditioned
Pale to Copper
Clear
Belgium
Good
Rocky
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Triple Creme
Entrée Beer Battered Fried Shrimp
Dessert Baklava
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are medium-low to medium-high. Hop
bitterness is medium-low to medium-high
Hop Ingredients Czech Saaz
Malt Aroma/Flavor These beers can be malty in overall impression, or dry and
highly attenuated
Other ingredients Cane Sugar. Herbs and spices are sometimes used to
delicately flavor these strong ales
Palate Body Soft
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale
Spicy, Pepper
Fruit (Pear, Orange, Apple)
Diacetyl should be very low, if evident
LGIAN-TYL PAL AL
These pale ales are gold to copper in color and can have caramel or toasted malt flavor. The style is characterized by low but noticeable hop
bitterness, flavor and aroma. These beers were inspired by British pale ales. They are very sessionable.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.054
1.008 - 1.014
4.1% - 6.3%
20 - 30
0.45 - 0.56
6 - 12
2.5 approximately
74 - 82
Rare Vos Brewery Ommegang
Saints Devotion The Lost Abbey
Perdition Russian River Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Gold to Copper
Clear
Belgium
Poor to Moderate
Rocky
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Taleggio
Entrée Tempura Fried Fish and Chips
Dessert Savory Bread Pudding
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are low but noticeable; noble-type
hops are commonly used. Hop bitterness is low but
noticeable
Malt Aroma/Flavor Caramel, Toast
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, CaraMunich, Biscuit
Other ingredients Belgian Candi Sugar (occasionally)
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Phenols Spicy
Esters Fruit (Pear, Orange)
LGIAN-TYL QUADRUPL
These beers are amber to dark brown in color. Caramel, dark sugar and malty sweet flavors dominate, with medium-low to medium-high hop
bitterness. Quads have a relatively light body compared to their alcoholic strength. If aged, oxidative qualities should be mild and not distracting.
Sometimes referred to as Belgian strong dark.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.084 - 1.120
1.014 - 1.020
9.1% - 14.2%
25 - 50
0.30 - 0.42
8 - 20
2.5 - 3
83 - 83
Four Allagash Brewing Co.
The Reverend Avery Brewing Co.
Salvation Russian River Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Noticeable to Hot
Amber to Dark Brown
Slight Haze
Belgium
Varies
Mousse-like
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Aged Gouda
Entrée Roasted Duck
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are not perceived to very low. Hop
bitterness is low to medium-low
Malt Aroma/Flavor Caramel, dark sugar and malty sweet flavors and aromas
can be intense, not cloying, while complementing fruitiness
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Phenols Clove-like phenolic flavor and aroma should not be evident
Esters Complex fruity flavors reminiscent of raisins, dates, figs,
grapes and/or plums emerge, often accompanied with a hint
of wine-like character. Perception of alcohol can be extreme
LGIAN-TYL AION
Beers in this category are gold to light amber in color. Often bottle-conditioned, with some yeast character and high carbonation. Belgian-style saison
may have Brettanomyces or lactic character, and fruity, horsey, goaty and/or leather-like aromas and flavors. Specialty ingredients, including spices,
may contribute a unique and signature character. Commonly called “farmhouse ales” and originating as summertime beers in Belgium, these are not
just warm-weather treats. U.S. craft brewers brew them year-round and have taken to adding a variety of additional ingredients.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.040 - 1.080
1.010 - 1.014
4.4% - 8.4%
20 - 38
0.50 - 0.50
4 - 14
3 - 3.5
83 - 75
Saison Funkwerks
Red Barn The Lost Abbey
Hennepin Brewery Ommegang
tle A-Z
Brewing/Conditioning Process Often bottle-conditioned, sometimes dry-hopped and
fermented at higher temperatures
Color Pale to Light Brown
Clarity Slight Haze
Collar of Foam (Texture) Rocky
Carbonation (Visual) Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Brie
Entrée Seafood (Mussels)
Dessert Lemon Ginger Sorbet
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma is low to medium. Hop bitterness is medium to
medium-high
Hop Ingredients Noble, Styrian, East Kent Goldings
Malt Aroma/Flavor Malt flavor is low but provides foundation for the overall
balance
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Munich, Malted Wheat
Other ingredients Simple Sugar, Honey, Spelt. Specialty ingredients (spices,
herbs, flowers, fruits, vegetables, fermentable sugars and
carbohydrates, special yeasts of all types, wood aging, etc.)
may contribute unique and signature character
Palate Body Soft
Water High sulfate content
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Microorganisms
Pepper
Fruit (Orange, Lemon)
Lactobacillus possible
A small amount of sour or acidic flavor is acceptable when
in balance with other components. These beers are often
bottle-conditioned, with some yeast character and high
carbonation
LGIAN-TYL TRIPL
Complex, sometimes mild spicy flavor characterizes this style. Yeast-driven complexity is common. Tripels are often on the higher end of the ABV
spectrum, yet are approachable to many different palates. These beers are commonly bottle-conditioned and finish dry. Tripels are similar to Belgianstyle golden strong ales, but are generally darker and have a more noticeable malt sweetness.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.070 - 1.092
1.008 - 1.018
7.1% - 10.1%
20 - 45
0.29 - 0.49
4 - 9
3 - 4
80 - 89
Exit 4 Flying Fish Brewing Co.
Tripel Green Flash Brewing Co.
Tripel New Belgium Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild
Pale to Light Amber
Clear
Belgium
Good
Rocky
Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Triple Creme
Entrée Roasted Turkey
Dessert Caramelized Banana Creme Brulee
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are not perceived to low. Hop
bitterness is medium to medium-high
Hop Ingredients Tetnang, Czech Saaz
Malt Aroma/Flavor Low sweetness from very pale malts is present
Malt Ingredients Belgian Pilsner
Other ingredients Brewing Sugar (occasionally)
Water Soft Water
YAT
Type Ale
Phenols Complex, sometimes mild spicy flavor. Clove-like phenolic
flavor may be evident at very low levels
Esters Fruit (Orange, Banana)
Fermentation Byproducts Traditional tripels are bottle-conditioned and may exhibit
slight yeast haze, but the yeast should not be intentionally
roused
AMRICAN ARLY WIN
tle Famil: trong Ale
These ales range from amber to deep red/copper-garnet in color. A caramel and/or toffee aroma and flavor are often part of the malt character along
with high residual malty sweetness. Complexity of alcohols is evident. Fruity-ester character is often high. As with many American versions of a style,
this barley wine ale is typically more hop-forward and bitter than its U.K. counterpart. Low levels of age-induced oxidation can harmonize with other
flavors and enhance the overall experience. Sometimes sold as vintage releases.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.090 - 1.120
1.024 - 1.028
8.5% - 12.2%
60 - 100
0.67 - 0.83
11 - 18
2 - 2.5
73 - 77
Bigfoot Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Old Foghorn Anchor Brewing Co.
Old Crustacean Rogue Ales
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Noticeable to Hot
Dry-hopping and aging are common
Amber to Deep Red or Copper-Garnet
Clear to Brilliant
United States
Poor
Thin
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Strong Blue Cheeses
Entrée Beef Cheek
Dessert Rich Desserts
Glass Snifter
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma and flavor are medium to very high. Hop
bitterness is high. American-type hops are often used, but
not necessary for this style
Hop Ingredients Magnum, Chinook, Centennial, Amarillo
Malt Aroma/Flavor Caramel, Toffee, Bready, Sweet
Malt Ingredients Pale, Crystal, Pale Chocolate, Special "B"
Palate Body Mouth-Coating to Sticky
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Ale
Not common to style
Fruity-ester flavors are often high
Very low levels of diacetyl may be acceptable
AMRICAN IMPRIAL RD AL
The use of American hops in this ale lends to the perception of medium hop bitterness, flavor and aroma. Coupled with a solid malt profile, this should
be a beer with balance between hop bitterness and malt sweetness. Some breweries will choose to bottle-condition this style, leading to possible fruity
esters and some haze in their appearance. This is another example of modern American brewers taking an established style and boosting the flavor.
California brewers are credited with creating this innovative style.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.080 - 1.100
1.020 - 1.028
8%-10.6%
55 - 85
0.69 - 0.85
10 - 17
2 - 2.5
72 - 75
Rino Chaser Pizza Port Brewing Co.
Big Hoppy Monster Imperial Red Ale Terrapin Beer Co.
Believer Ninkasi Brewing
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Mild to Noticeable
Deep Amber to Dark Copper or Reddish Brown
Slight Haze to Clear. Unfiltered versions: Hazy to Very
Cloudy
United States
Poor to Good
Thin to Fluffy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Mozzarella
Entrée Corned Beef Hash
Dessert Toffee Pudding
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma, flavor and bitterness are high but balanced,
arising from any variety of hops
Malt Aroma/Flavor Medium to high caramel malt character is present
Other ingredients Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Medium.
RITIH-TYL ARLY WIN AL
A strong ale that leans heavily on malt characteristics for flavor. With a wide color range and typically high in alcohol, this is a style that is often aged
and will evolve well over time. As they advance in age, these beers develop oxidative characteristics including honey and toffee flavors and aromas,
darker colors, lessened bitterness and more.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.085 - 1.120
1.024 - 1.028
8.5% - 12.0%
40 - 60
0.47 - 0.50
14 - 22
1.5 - 2
72 - 77
Old Numbskull AleSmith Brewing Co.
Old Stock Ale North Coast Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol
Color
Clarity
Country of Origin
Noticeable to Hot
Aging is common
Tawny Copper to Deep Red or Copper-Garnet
United Kingdom
Poor
Thin to Interrupted
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese English Stilton
Entrée Moroccan Duck
Dessert Dark Chocolate
Glass Snifter
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop flavor and aroma are very low to medium. Hop
bitterness is low to medium. English-type hops are often
used, but not necessary for this style
Hop Ingredients Kent Goldings, Horizon
Malt Aroma/Flavor Nutty, Caramel, Biscuit
Malt Ingredients English Pale, CaraMunich, Crystal
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Esters Fruity-ester characters are often high and balanced with the
high alcohol content
Fermentation Byproducts Low levels of diacetyl may be acceptable
NGLIH-TYL OLD AL
A distinctive quality of these ales is that their yeast undergoes an aging process (often for years) in bulk storage or through bottle conditioning, which
contributes to a rich, wine-like and often sweet oxidation character. Old ales are copper-red to very dark in color. Complex estery character may
emerge.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.058 - 1.088
1.014 - 1.030
6.3% - 9.1%
30 - 65
0.52 - 0.74
12 - 30
2 approximately
66 - 76
Irish Walker Olde Hickory Brewing
Heini's Hooch The Church Brew Works
Curmudgeon Founders Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol Noticeable to Hot
Brewing/Conditioning Process Typically mashed at higher temperatures to reduce
attenuation. Wood-aged notes such as vanillin are
acceptable.
Color Copper-Red to Very Dark
Clarity Opaque
Country of Origin United Kingdom
Collar of Foam (Head Retention) Poor to Moderate
Collar of Foam (Texture) Thin to Foamy
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Double Gloucester
Entrée Roast Beef and Lamb
Dessert Spiced Plum Walnut Tart
Glass Snifter
bitterness is minimal but evident.
Malt Aroma/Flavor A malty and sometimes caramel-like sweetness may be
evident.
Malt Ingredients Pale, Chocolate, Black Patent
Other ingredients Molasses, Treacle, Invert Sugar, Dark Sugar
Palate Body Moderate to Mouth-Coating
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Microorganisms
Fruit (Varies)
Lactobacillus possible. Horsey, goaty, leathery and phenolic
character evolved from Brettanomyces organisms and
acidity may be present but should be at low levels and
balanced with other flavors.
Fermentation Byproducts Diacetyl is acceptable at very low levels.
AMRICAN RTT
tle Famil: Wild/our eer
These unique beers vary in color and can take on the hues of added fruits or other ingredients. Horsey, goaty, leathery, phenolic and some fruity acidic
character derived from Brettanomyces organisms may be evident, but in balance with other components of the beer. Brett beer and sour beer are not
synonymous.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Serenity Wicked Weed Brewing
Seizoen Bretta Logsdon Farmhouse Ales
Sanctification Russian River Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol Varies
Brewing/Conditioning Process Wood vessels may be used during the fermentation and
aging process. Blending is also common
Color Varies
Clarity Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Earthy Farmhouse Cheeses
Entrée Grilled or Roasted Game
Dessert Fruit-Filled Pastries
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma, flavor and bitterness are evident over a full
range from low to high
Other ingredients Fruit (occasionally)
Palate Body Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Microorganisms
Brettanomyces, Ale/Lager possible
Can be present
Can be present
Brettanomyces possible
AMRICAN OUR
The acidity present in these beers is usually in the form of lactic, acetic and other organic acids naturally developed with acidified malt in the mash, or
produced during fermentation by the use of various microorganisms. These beers may derive their sour flavor from pure cultured forms of souring
agents or from the influence of barrel aging.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Ching Ching Bend Brewing Co.
Barrel Select Gold Captain Lawrence Brewing Co.
Love Child No. 3 Boulevard Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol Varies
Brewing/Conditioning Process Wood vessels may be used during the fermentation and
aging process, but wood-derived flavors such as vanillin
must not be present
Color Any range of color, and may take on the color of other
ingredients
Clarity Varies
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Strongly Flavored Cheeses
Entrée Varies
Glass Goblet
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma, flavor and bitterness are evident over a full
range from low to high
Malt Aroma/Flavor In darker versions, roasted malt, caramel-like and
chocolate-like aromas are subtly present
Other ingredients Varies
Palate Body Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type Ale, Brettanomyces possible
Esters Moderate to intense, yet balanced, fruity ester aromas are
evident
Microorganisms Lactobacillus
Fermentation Byproducts Bacteria- and yeast-induced haze are acceptable at any
temperature
LGIAN-TYL FLANDR
An ale with character and balance, thanks to lactic sourness and acetic acid. Cherry-like flavors are acceptable, as is malt sweetness that can lend
bitterness and a cocoa-like character. Oak or other wood-like flavors may be present, even if the beer was not aged in barrels. Overall, the style is
characterized by slight to strong lactic sourness, and Flanders “reds” sometimes include a balanced degree of acetic acid. Brettanomyces-produced
flavors may be absent or very low. This style is a marvel in flavor complexity, combining malt, yeast, microorganisms, acidity and low astringency from
barrel aging.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.056
1.008 - 1.016
4.8% - 6.6%
5 - 18
0.11 - 0.32
12 - 25
2 - 2.5
71 - 82
Enigma New Glarus Brewing
Oud Tart The Bruery
La Folie New Belgium Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Brewing/Conditioning Process Blending is common. Oak-like or woody characters may be
pleasantly integrated into the overall palate when aged in
oak barrels
Color Copper to Very Dark
Clarity Brilliant to Slight Haze
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Mimolette
Entrée Beef Carbonnade
Dessert Pumpkin Pie
Glass Tulip
perceived to be very low to medium-low
Malt Aroma/Flavor Roasted malt aromas including a cocoa-like character are
acceptable at low levels. A very low degree of malt
sweetness may be present
Malt Ingredients Vienna, Munich Special "B", Aromatic
Palate Body Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type Brettanomyces
Esters Fruit-ester aromas, which are often cherry-like, are
apparent. May also have notes of raisins, plums, figs and
prunes
Microorganisms Lactobacillus possible
Fermentation Byproducts Some versions may be more highly carbonated and, when
bottle-conditioned, may appear cloudy when served
LGIAN-TYL FRUIT LAMIC
Often known as cassis, framboise, kriek, or peche, a fruit lambic takes on the color and flavor of the fruit it is brewed with. It can be dry or sweet, clear
or cloudy, depending on the ingredients. Notes of Brettanomyces yeast are often present at varied levels. Sourness is an important part of the flavor
profile, though sweetness may compromise the intensity. These flavored lambic beers may be very dry or mildly sweet.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.040 - 1.072
1.008 - 1.016
5.0% - 8.9%
15 - 21
0.29 - 0.38
Varies
4 approximately
78 - 80
Cherry Lambic Upland Brewing Co.
Coolship Red Allagash Brewing Co.
Transatlantique Kriek New Belgium Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Alcohol Varies
Brewing/Conditioning Process Old lambic is blended with newly fermenting young lambic
to create this style. Fruit is added as well. These beers are
aged in oak
Color Hued with color reflecting the choice of fruit
Clarity Varies
Collar of Foam (Texture) Rocky to Mousse-like
Carbonation (Visual) Fast Rising Bubbles
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Chèvre
Entrée Pineapple Ceviche
Dessert Chocolate Creme Caramel
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma, flavor and bitterness are not perceived to very
low, and can include cheesy or floral lavender notes
Hop Ingredients Aged, stale hops
Malt Aroma/Flavor Sweet malt characters are not perceived
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Flaked Wheat
Other ingredients Unmalted Wheat, Fruit
Palate Body Varies
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Phenols
Esters
Microorganisms
Can be present
Can be present.
Cloudiness is acceptable
LGIAN-TYL LAMIC/GUUZ
Naturally and spontaneously fermented beers with high to very high levels of esters, plus bacterial and yeast-derived sourness that sometimes
includes acetic flavors. Lambics are not blended, while the gueuze style blends old and new lambics which are re-fermented in the bottle. Historically,
they are dry and completely attenuated, exhibiting no residual sweetness either from malt, sugar or artificial sweeteners. Sweet versions may be
created through the addition of sugars or artificial sweeteners. Many examples of this style are made to resemble the gueuze lambic beers of the
Brussels area, where it originated.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.044 - 1.056
1.000 - 1.010
6.3% - 8.9%
9 - 23
0.20 - 0.41
6 - 13
1 - 1.5
82 - 100
American Blackberry Sour New Glarus Brewing
Sour Reserve Upland Brewing Co.
Supplication Russian River Brewing Co.
tle A-Z
Brewing/Conditioning Process Old lambic is blended with newly-fermented young lambic.
These beers are aged in oak
Color Gold to Medium Amber
Clarity Brilliant (but haze may exist from yeast sediment from bottle
fermentation)
Collar of Foam (Texture) Mousse-like
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Mascarpone with Fruit
Entrée Shellfish (Mussels)
Dessert Rich Chocolate Cake
Glass Tulip
Hop Aroma/Flavor Hop aroma, flavor and bitterness are not perceived to very
low, and can include cheesy or floral lavender notes
Hop Ingredients Aged, stale hops
Malt Aroma/Flavor Sweet malt characters are not perceived
Malt Ingredients Pilsner, Flaked Wheat
Other ingredients Unmalted Wheat
Palate Body Drying to Soft
Palate Carbonation Very Low to High
Water Varies
YAT
Type
Esters
Microorganisms
High to very high fruity ester aromas are present
Characteristic horsey, goaty, leathery and phenolic aromas
derived from Brettanomyces yeast are often present at
moderate levels
CONTMPORARY GO
Straw to medium amber, gose is cloudy from suspended yeast. A wide variety of herbal, spice, floral or fruity aromas other than found in traditional
Leipzig-Style Gose are present, in harmony with other aromas. Salt (table salt) character is traditional in low amounts, but may vary from absent to
present. Body is low to medium-low. Low to medium lactic acid character is evident in all examples as sharp, refreshing sourness.
OG
FG
ABV
IBU
BU:GU
SRM
CO2 Volumes
1.036 - 1.056
1.008 - 1.012
4.4-5.4
10 - 15
0.28 - 0.27
3 to 9
3.3 - 4.5
77.78 - 78.5
Old Pro Gose Union Craft Brewing
The Kimmie, The Yink & The Holy Gose
Anderson Valley Brewing Company
Kirsch Gose Victory Brewing Company
tle A-Z
Alcohol Not Detectable
Brewing/Conditioning Process May be fermented with pure beer yeast strains, or with
yeast mixed with bacteria. Contemporary Gose may be
spontaneously fermented and should exhibit complexity of
acidic, flavor and aroma contributed by introduction of wild
yeast and bacteria into the fermentation
Color Straw to Light Amber
Clarity Cloudy/ Hazy
Collar of Foam (Texture) Foamy to Rocky
FOOD PAIRING
Cheese Queso Fresco
Entrée Watermelon Salad
Dessert Greek Yogurt Lemon Mousse
Glass
Hop Aroma/Flavor
Hop Ingredients
Malt Aroma/Flavor
Malt Ingredients
Other ingredients
Palate Body
Palate Carbonation
Temperature
Water
Flute
None
Grainy
Pilsner and Wheat
Table Salt, herbs, spices or fruit
Varies
Medium to High
Medium
40-50°F
Varies
YAT
Type Ale
Microorganisms Lactobacilus, Brettanomyces
Fermentation Byproducts Horsey, leathery or earthy flavors contributed by
Brettanomyces yeasts may be evident but have a very low
profile, as this beer is not excessively aged
Repulihing and Permiion
Republishing of the CraftBeer.com Beer Style Guide, in its entirety or as excerpts, is granted providing the following requirements are met:
The following verbiage must appear in all print, web, app or other instances that reference the CraftBeer.com Beer Styles Guide: “2016
CraftBeer.com Beer Styles Guide (http://www.craftbeer.com/beer-styles-guide) published by the Brewers Association.
When republishing any content of the Style Guide, the text may not be altered or paraphrased.
Please do not request alternative file versions. What is available is already published on CraftBeer.com.
Credit
Contributors: Ted Burnham, Julia Herz, John Holl, Cindy Jones, Meghan Storey, Luke Trautwein, Andy Sparhawk, Grant Puza, Nate Zander
Sources: Brewers Association Style Guidelines 2016, The Oxford Companion to Beer, CraftBeer.com Beer glossary, BJCP, Designing Great
Beers by Ray Daniels, Brewing Classic Styles by Jamil Zainasheff and John J. Palmer and Radical Brewing by Randy Mosher.
Inspirations: Charlie Papazian, Chris Swersey, Paul Gatza, Chuck Skypeck, Gordon Strong, Don Blake, Beer Judge Certification Program Style
Guidelines, Cicerone®, Ray Daniels, Designing Great Beers, Oregon State University, Randy Mosher, Siebel Institute, Master Brewers
Association of the Americas, All About Beer magazine, Melissa Monosoff
Comments, suggestions, questions: contact Julia Herz: julia@brewersassociation.org
Aout Crafteer.com
CraftBeer.com (http://www.CraftBeer.com) , published by the Brewers Association, was created to communicate the passion, authenticity, excitement,
creativity, camaraderie and joy of the craft brewing community. When visiting CraftBeer.com, you can expect to learn about all aspects of the amazing
beer being produced by America’s small and independent breweries. You’ll learn how to further enjoy the beverage in your glass, and about the
individuals and processes behind your beer. Plain and simple: CraftBeer.com celebrates the best of American beer.

Beer Styles Study Guide

Transcription

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